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Volume 4, No. 1, January 2013, ISSN 2226-1095
Smart cities
• Users’ verdict on ISO 20121
• ISO 26000 forum a
Contents Comment Simpler, faster, better and smarter ISO’s challenge ISO Focus+ is published 10 times a year Comment (single issues : July-August, November-December). Simpler, faster, better and smarter – ISO’s challenge It is available in English and French. Rob Steele, ISO Secretary-General...... 1 Providing city dwellers with quality of life, while at the same time be defended vigorously. Our standards are www.iso.org/isofocus+ the basis of our reputation, a reputation that ISO Update : www.iso.org/isoupdate managing the pressures exerted by demographic growth, urbanization World Scene and climate change, is a major challenge. Today, half of the world’s must be maintained against all comers. In The electronic edition (PDF file) of 2013, ISO will be innovative in our efforts ISO Focus+ is accessible free of charge on International events and international standardization ...... 2 seven billion inhabitants live in cities and urban areas and it is esti- to ensure quality is maintained and our the ISO Website www.iso.org/isofocus+ mated that in little more than a generation this will increase to two lines of distribution protected. The benefits An annual subscription to the paper edition Guest Interview thirds of the world’s population. “ Smart cities ” are needed to safe- of using International Standards will be costs 38 Swiss francs. guard their inhabitants’ right to a liveable, sustainable environment. promoted as the experts who developed John F. Malloy – Chairman, President & CEO Victaulic ...... 3 the standards intended. Publisher When people live in close proximity, everyone and everything must When new technologies or business ISO Central Secretariat Special Report work together. That’s where ISO comes in. sectors emerge, so does the need for cor- (International Organization for responding, internationally agreed ISO Standardization) Building smart cities – How ISO standards contribute ...... 8 standards. Focusing on basic features, 1, chemin de la Voie-Creuse ISO standards have a key role to play in customer expectation. We need to add the such as terminology, compatibility and CH – 1211 Genève 20 Sustainable communities – Together for a better world ...... 10 the construction and development of cities. label “ innovative ” to our trusted brand interoperability, as well as health, safety Switzerland The January 2013 issue of ISO Focus+ name if we are to meet the challenges of Green buildings – Laying tomorrow’s foundations today ...... 13 and environmental aspects, ISO helps to Tel. : +41 22 749 01 11 includes an overview of the major issues the future. disseminate newly acquired knowledge and Fax : +41 22 733 34 30 Re-energizing energy saving – Boosting global efforts to save energy and the facing cities today and tomorrow, and of expertise. ISO standards increase the market E-mail : [email protected] the standards addressing these issues. The environment ...... 16 share for the cutting-edge products and cities of tomorrow must be smart cities, “Sustainable” and services derived from innovation. Explor- Manager : Roger Frost Towards the ultra-efficient home – ISO standard supports the development utilizing scant resources to best effect. Editor in Chief : Elizabeth Gasiorowski-Denis “smart” are inextricably ing new fields of endeavour, proactively As the world goes into 2013, it is clear Assistant Editor : Maria Lazarte of energy efficient homes ...... 19 linked. promoting ISO’s involvement in new areas that the last decade has shown the need to Communication Officer : Sandrine Tranchard of technical expertise must be our priority. Service life planning – Responding to the needs of an evolving industry ...... 23 ensure global resources are not being frit- Artwork : Xela Damond, Pierre Granier ISO has contributions to make to add and Alexane Rosa tered away, and that money spent is money Crisis-proofing cities – ISO standards are making cities more resilient ...... 28 And we must ensure that everybody has value and ensure “ sustainable ” and “ smart ” Copy editor/Proofreader : Vivienne Rojas well spent. New ideas and new solutions a stake in standardization. Technological are inextricably linked, supporting a world Translation : Translation Services, Saving lives – ISO 39001 will make roads safer ...... 32 need to be found if the need to efficiently advances happen every day, in every corner where everyone and everything must work ISO Central Secretariat and sustainably manage natural resources of the world. ISO’s 164 members include together. That’s ISO’s challenge. Centre-fold and requirements are to be met. We also industrialized, developing and transitional My very best wishes to all for a happy, Subscription enquiries : Sonia Rosas Friot have a responsibility to future generations How ISO makes our cities smarter ...... 26-27 economies from every region on earth. ISO healthy, prosperous and smart 2013 ! ISO Central Secretariat to ensure the 21st century will allow the standards support the international com- Tel. : +41 22 749 03 36 22nd century to thrive… or at least to exist. Fax : +41 22 749 09 47 Planet ISO munity by providing practical tools to meet In an increasingly interconnected world E-mail : [email protected] clear opportunities and problems. Standards News of the ISO system ...... 34 which, at the same time is experiencing are produced that show the know-how of increasingly sharp differences, ISO can- © ISO, 2013. All rights reserved. experts from every part of the world, but Management Solutions not be content to merely go along with the increasing the input from emerging econo- The contents of ISO Focus+ are copyrighted “ same old, same old ”. We cannot only react mies has to take place. and may not, whether in whole or in part, Event sustainability management – ISO 20121 passes 2012 Olympic Games test ... 36 to events and respond to stimuli ; we have We need to encourage greater participa- be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or to take the lead : to be proactive as well transmitted in any form or by any means, elec- tion by every potential standards maker, as reactive ; forestalling problems where tronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise, Standards in Action providing the facilities to make this possible, without written permission of the Editor. possible, not just coping when they occur. ensuring that stakeholders from developed, Partnerships with a purpose – The Irish energy management story will do ...... 44 ISO is changing because it must. developing and transitional economies alike The articles in ISO Focus+ express the views We must manage what we do in a way can develop standards that help them to of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect 360° that is not only simpler, faster and better the views of ISO or of any of its members. work and compete on a level playing field. − but smarter too. Our mission is not just And this can be accomplished by making ISO 26000 – International forum revisits the road travelled...... 48 to passively respond to market needs once sure that “ standards takers ” get the support ISSN 2226-1095 these have been identified, but to help try to become “ standards makers ” in areas of Printed in Switzerland New Releases and anticipate them. Our job is to ensure interest to them. we keep pace with – or be a step ahead ISO’s image as “ the authority ” on Cover photo : ISO, 2012 ISO standards – State of the art for the construction industry ...... 52 of – the increasingly rapid evolution of developing International Standards must Rob Steele, ISO Secretary-General. Coming Up 53
ISO Focus+ January 2013 1 a World Scene Guest Interview
International year will be held on 6-7 March 2013, in association of water cooperation with Geneva’s International Motor Show. Last year’s event attracted more than 100 The United Nations declared 2013 the experts from around the world, and covered John F. Malloy International Year of Water Cooperation. a series of interactive discussions on the need Led by the UN Educational, Scientific and for standardization for electric vehicles, driver Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the distraction and vehicle safety, intelligent Chairman, President & CEO Victaulic objective is to raise awareness, both on the transport systems (ITS) communications, potential for increased cooperation, and on the and standards for cooperative ITS systems. challenges facing water management in light Participants also gained insight into the chal- of the increase in demand for water access, lenges and opportunities that are present in allocation and services. under-developed markets. The 2013 FNC will cover further develop- ments in these areas, and any new solutions or challenges that have arisen since 2012. In addition, we hope that participants will be treated to informal tours of several exhibits David J. Wineland was awarded the 2012 Nobel Prize in physics. on the show floor. The contributions and expertise provided by the panellists and the audience will help of individual atoms for the first time. His foster a better understanding of the challenges research has led to the development of laser- the auto industry faces over the coming years, cooled atomic clocks, which are even more and how International Standards can help the accurate than traditional clocks, as well as to industry to continue to meet customer needs. significant advances in quantum computing, an experimental science that holds the potential Nobel Prize in physics to vastly outpace the speed and effectiveness of today’s computers. Dr. David J. Wineland, a physicist and Under-Secretary of Commerce for Standards The Year will highlight the history of suc- researcher at the US Department of Com- and Technology and NIST Director Patrick cessful water cooperation initiatives, as well merce’s National Institute of Standards and Gallagher said, “ Dave’s work embodies NIST’s as identify burning issues on water educa- Technology (NIST), was awarded the 2012 mission to pioneer new measurement science tion, water diplomacy, transboundary water Nobel Prize in physics for his work pioneer- that will substantially advance technology management, financing cooperation, national/ ing methods to allow the measurement and and innovation.” international legal frameworks, and the link- manipulation of individual atoms. NIST experts widely participate in ISO’s ages with the Millennium Development Goals. Dr. Wineland, who works at NIST’s labo- work through the ISO member for the USA, ISO’s multi-stakeholder and consensus- ratory in Boulder, Colorado, and serves as ANSI. based approach exemplifies international a lecturer in the physics department of the cooperation. Its numerous water standards University of Colorado Boulder, shared the German Ministry takes up constitute global solutions for a problem award with Dr. Serge Haroche, a professor ISO 50001 that cannot be treated in isolation, helping at the Collège de France and École Normale us manage our shared resources equitably Supérieure. Dr. Wineland is the fourth sci- The German Federal Ministry for the and durably. ISO water standards target areas entist at NIST to receive the Nobel Prize in Environment, Nature Conservation and such as water quality, hydrometry, drinking physics since 1997. Nuclear Safety has published a guide to and wastewater services, piping systems and Dr. Wineland has been working for NIST help organizations in the country implement irrigation among others. for 37 years. He has long been internation- ISO 50001:2011, Energy management sys- ally recognized for his innovative research tems – Requirements with guidance for use. Future of vehicles on electrically charged atoms known as By 2020, Germany aims to reduce its primary trapped ions. In 1978, he carried out the first energy consumption by 20 % (from 2008), and The 8th Fully Networked Car (FNC) work- demonstration of laser cooling, in which lasers by 50 % for 2050. Energy efficiency is crucial shop, organized jointly by ISO, the Interna- are used to reduce the temperature of ions to meet these goals. The new document, Energy tional Telecommunications Union, and the trapped in a vacuum to near absolute zero, Management Systems in Practice – ISO 50001 : Photo : Courtesy of Victaulic International Electrotechnical Commission, allowing researchers to study the properties A guide for companies and organizations, will contribute to this initiative by introducing the content of the standard, as well as highlighting differences and similarities with the European ohn F. Malloy is Chairman, President and Chief Hamilton College. He holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental management system (EMAS) J and ISO 14001 (environmental management), Executive Officer of Victaulic, a global leader in economics from Boston College and a doctorate in which also forms part of EMAS. The Ministry the design and manufacture of mechanical pipe- economics from Syracuse University. believes that organizations implementing the joining system solutions. latter may already comply with some of the In addition to his leadership role at Victaulic, requirements of ISO 50001. The guide is intended to be used by both Prior to joining Victaulic, Mr. Malloy spent Mr. Malloy shares his talents through active par- large and small organizations. It highlights 19 years working for United Technologies Corpo- ticipation on the boards of several well-regarded the benefits of ISO 50001 by stating that sys- temic energy management is an appropriate ration, rising to the position of President for North companies and not-for-profit organizations, in- instrument for continually improving energy America for UTC’s Carrier Division. cluding Hubbell Inc., Hollingsworth & Vose, efficiency in companies and organizations. The cost reductions also help to strengthen Before joining UTC, Mr. Malloy worked for Air Lehigh Valley Hospital Network and DeSales a company’s competitive edge in the market. Products & Chemicals and taught economics at University.
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Guest Interview
ISO Focus+ : As one of the world’s lead- ing providers of mechanical pipe-joining About Victaulic systems, how do International Standards contribute to success at Victaulic ? Founded in 1925, Victaulic is a leading producer of mechanical pipe-joining systems. It John F. Malloy : Victaulic is a global is the originator of the grooved pipe-joining system, which was conceived during World organization. We have manufacturing War I to make laying temporary wartime overland steel pipelines quicker and easier. and support centres located in countries throughout the world, including Australia, The grooved piping method – which dramatically reduces the amount of installation time Belgium, Canada, China, Dubai, India, and reduces total installed costs compared to welding, threading and flanging – is now the Mexico, Poland and the United States. Our predominant global method for the assembly of heating, ventilation and air conditioning products are used in countries all over the (HVAC), plumbing and fire protection piping systems. In addition to commercial buildings, globe and in markets ranging from oil and Victaulic products are used in utility and process piping applications in some of the world’s gas to mining, power generation, water most demanding markets, including oil, gas and chemical, mining, power generation, treatment, marine and commercial building. water and wastewater treatment , and military and marine systems. Headquartered in Easton, Pennsylvania, USA, Victaulic has manufacturing and distribution International Standards facilities worldwide and employs approximately 4 000 people. For more information, are part of the Victaulic visit www.victaulic.com. Photo : Courtesy of Victaulic difference. been granted oversight authority. Regula- single set of criteria that is acceptable to all market. Global relevance is key to ensuring tions often reference relevant standards, technical committee members, and yet still that products can pass all applicable tests, The nature of our business and the where some type of performance or other meets the local code or laws of the country be sold and distributed around the world, breadth of markets in which we operate acceptance criteria may require validation or jurisdiction they represent. and function properly in all applications. require a global perspective. International by an independent third-party examiner or A manufacturer benefits greatly when Standards are part of the Victaulic differ- testing organization. they can economically produce a single ence. As we design and develop solutions, The relevant standards provide guiding product or component that complies with When ISO standards are it is important that we adhere to, or even principles for the qualification of a process, an International Standard adopted and used harmonized and widely exceed, these standards to support customers product or system, and incorporate input by a wide range of supporting countries. worldwide in any industry we serve. It is adopted, manufacturers from a wide range of stakeholders. When ISO The technical committee developing the equally important that we be involved in can shorten the time to standards are harmonized and widely adopted, standard strives to reach consensus as to organizations such as ISO that are helping a manufacturer like Victaulic can shorten the the specific tests that should be included, market. to propel these industries forward in terms time to market by eliminating redundancies in and what is most sensible for the global of better quality, safety and protection. testing and qualification. We also capitalize Each country has its own standards on the global consistency the standard affords and regulations. The complexity of those to our international operations. regulations varies from one country to another, and can also vary from region to region within a country. The harmonization of these individual performance criteria It’s important into a single, globally relevant standard that we be involved can significantly increase our company’s in organizations like ISO. operating efficiency. As such, it is very important that a company like ours, which continues to I foresee Victaulic becoming more expand globally, have direct input into the involved with the development of, and development of International Standards. By participation in, ISO standards because participating in ISO technical committees, they are looked upon in many countries we have the opportunity to influence the Photo : Courtesy of Victaulic as the building blocks upon which other development or revision of these standards, standards are developed. and introduce the type of technology that Victaulic designs and develops solutions that incorporate ISO standards to support customers worldwide. a company like Victaulic is employing in ISO Focus+ : As product testing requires its products. development of International Standards, and services. How do standards play a role considerable time and money, how can Until those International Standards are we gain a better understanding of local in regulations ? How do International International Standards contribute to fully developed and adopted, we need practices, laws and regulations, as well as Standards for conformity assessment increasing efficiency ? Can you give us a to be completely knowledgeable about a market and cultural considerations. benefit the global operations of Victaulic ? few examples ? wide range of local codes and standards, and whether or not our current materials ISO Focus+ : Regulation and conformity John F. Malloy : Regulations are typically John F. Malloy : International Standards Photo : Courtesy of Victaulic and technology can be incorporated within with standards are crucial to ensure the government-mandated legislation, and are contribute to efficiency by harmonizing By adopting ISO standards globally, Victaulic is able to consistently manufacture products that the scope of these documents. Through the safety, quality and efficiency of products enforced by specific agencies that have test requirements. Their intent is to have a meet International Standards.
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Guest Interview
At Victaulic, a key portion of our busi- of International Standards to innovation ? Because of the need to ensure harmo- Originally, certification to ISO 9001 ness is the design and development of fire Is there a right moment for the develop- nization, consensus building and global was viewed as an important part of our protection systems components, including ment of standards for new technologies ? relevance, the introduction of new tech- European sales portfolio. However, in more sprinklers, couplings, fittings, valves, alarm nologies must be timed appropriately. recent times, this certification has become John F. Malloy : ISO, through its devices, accessories and pipe preparation This can be critical to those manufacturers an invaluable asset in terms of how our standards development process, seeks tools. Our Director of Global Regulatory who may have patent concerns, or may operations are viewed by the many regula- to promote innovation. As members Compliance, Len Swantek, chairs ISO not have sufficient field history to support tory auditing bodies. of ISO technical committees (TC), we technical committee ISO/TC 21, Equipment the introduction of such technologies on a are encouraged to introduce and share for fire protection and fire fighting, subcom- global scale. However, many companies technology or new materials. There is a mittee SC 5, Fixed firefighting systems using with proven expertise and statistical data certain level of “ cross-training ” during In more recent times, water. The committee takes input from to back up their work often take the lead committee sessions that provides a new ISO 9001 certification global manufacturers, testing authorities, in introducing new materials, technology understanding for those delegates who installers, fire code enforcement officials or scientific breakthroughs. has become may not have the same level of expertise and others. These organizations bring their an invaluable asset. or market experience in their home region. unique perspective to the committee on how ISO Focus+ : What are the benefits of they test products and view the advancement getting involved in international stand- of the global fire safety industry. You quickly realize ardization ? Can you tell us about some of We have found that having a quality the areas in which Victaulic participates ? that you are all there for management system certified to ISO 9001 ISO Focus+ : Since its establishment in provides other external auditing bodies with John F. Malloy : As I previously men- 1925, Victaulic has prided itself on innova- the common good. a well-organized structure to follow in their Photo : Courtesy of Victaulic tioned, Victaulic is active on ISO technical tion. What in your view is the contribution own auditing process. This reduces auditing As building and construction codes evolve, Victaulic takes an active role in helping shape committee ISO/TC 21/SC 5. Through our time and enables a multitude of regulators the standards that impact performance, quality, safety and protection. participation on SC 5 and, more directly, to quickly check those key elements that on the US Technical Advisory Group have the greatest impact on product and (USTAG), we play a role in shaping fire process control. safety standards that affect the most criti- Additionally, the ISO 9001 certification is cal components and qualification methods. widely recognized by testing organizations Ultimately, our contribution − like that of and labs, and the process we went through others − hopefully improves the quality and to achieve this, gives them an added level reliability of fire protection products and of assurance. Achieving and maintaining life safety systems in general. certification to ISO 9001 is not an easy task, but it certainly lends credibility to an organization like Victaulic, which Our TC and SC manufactures and distributes its products members are focused worldwide. on life safety and loss In addition to our QMS certification, we have taken steps to ensure that we control prevention. the quality of every component of our products. At Victaulic, we are vertically integrated in our manufacturing processes There are also a number of intangible ben- to ensure maximum quality control from Photo : Courtesy of Victaulic efits. Interacting with delegates from countries the development phase through to the com- Qualification testing is a key function in determining individual component durability that makes all over the world provides a well-rounded mercialization of our solutions. up the overall performance of the end device or complete system. and balanced perspective. You learn of their challenges and the solutions they employ. We share knowledge, cultural experiences, and numerous unique perspectives and, in many cases, it sparks great friendships. At the end of the day, the technical committee members are all trying to save lives, protect property, and minimize risk. You quickly realize that you are all there for the common good.
ISO Focus+ : What is the value of man- agement system standards like ISO 9001 ? John F. Malloy : Our quality manage-
ment system (QMS) certification, which Photo : Courtesy of Victaulic Photo : Courtesy of Victaulic we achieved in the late 1980s, has become Photo : Courtesy of Victaulic Fire safety standards incorporate a wide Victaulic openly collaborates on system design and product applications to the benefit of other a key element in our overall regulatory Victaulic views qualification testing to exacting specifications as the most important output of range of laboratory data obtained by ISO TC delegates who may have less technical expertise in their home region. operations. developing concise and globally relevant standards. replicating known field scenarios.
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Building smart cities How ISO standards contribute
by Sandrine Tranchard
Half of humanity today lives in cities. The world’s cities are grow- ing as people move from rural areas in search of jobs and opportuni- ties to improve their lives and create a better future for their children.
According to the United Nations, by ISO standards can be used to tackle 2030, six out of every 10 people will live many urban challenges by supporting in a city, and by 2050, this will increase to sustainable development. They can also, seven out of 10 people. Currently, around at a micro-level, provide requirements half the world’s inhabitants live in cities of for monitoring technical and functional between 100 000 and 500 000 people, and performance. They take into account good nearly 10 % live in megacities [cities with business practice and optimal management a population of over 10 million, as defined of resources, while helping to monitor by Human Settlements Programme (UN and thus reduce environmental impact. HABITAT)]. Governments, municipalities and the Waste, sewage and air pollution are public at large can use International Stand- among the major problems. Other risks ards to meet the needs of city dwellers in include disease. Cities promote greater a rapidly urbanizing world. They can help interaction between people than rural areas, tackle climate change, address security and which also increases the risk of contagion. transport issues, and ensure the quality of Security is another concern. Studies water services, even in disasters. have shown that the crime rate in cities is The following Special Report on smart higher and the chances of being arrested cities gives an overview of the major and punished are lower. Finally, the high concerns of cities today and how ISO concentration of people results in traffic standards provide the support for better, congestion and longer commuting times, healthier and safer city living. It highlights whether by vehicle or on foot. how International Standards contribute to Cities, however, may also have a posi- building smart cities by improving energy tive influence on the environment. UN efficiency, increasing safety, planning HABITAT has suggested that city living sustainable urban development, develop- may be the best solution for dealing with ing reliable road networks and effective the rising population. This is because cities means of transportation, reducing pollution concentrate human activity into one place, and dealing with water and wastewater limiting the geographical spread of environ- management. mental impacts. This can only be achieved, however, if urban planning is improved and Sandrine Tranchard is a Communications Officer, city services are properly maintained. ISO Central Secretariat.
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Special Report Sustainable communities Together for a better world
by Jacques Lair and Christian Bougeard
A tsunami can cause lasting disruption in the economic activity of a country like Japan and affect its citizens’ daily lives in cities and local communities for a long time. A hurricane can hamper recovery of an island that has been devastated by an earthquake (Haiti) and leave one of the most modern cities in the world (New York City, USA) and its surroundings paralyzed. Extensive exploitation of forests or plant species, such as soya or palm oil, can destroy ecosystems and threaten Increased participation traditional ways of life. From these examples, the need to anticipate in ISO/TC 268 and assess project sustainability is self-evident. Although recently established in March 2012, technical committee ISO/TC 268, Governmental authorities, international – General principles and requirements, by Sustainable development in communities, building on ISO 26000:2010, Guidance on organizations and non-profit associations attracts considerable interest as have identified the scale of the challenge and social responsibility. evidenced by the number and diversity have developed programmes individually to Another standard under development in of its members : meet their own objectives and needs. The the technical committee’s work programme consequent proliferation of benchmarks is ISO 37120, Sustainable development • 14 participating countries : Austria on sustainable development and planning and resilience of communities – Global city (ASI), Belgium (NBN), Canada (SCC), – whether developed within the framework indicators for city services and quality of China (SAC), Denmark (DS), France urban infrastructures around the world, The future ISO 37101 management system of the United Nations system, by the World life, which will help harmonize performance (AFNOR), Germany (DIN), Japan (JISC), which will serve as a basis for the devel- standard – will then serve as a basis for the Bank or by the Organisation for Economic indicators in these fields. Netherlands (NEN), Senegal (ASN), opment of the future ISO 37151 standard development of specific implementation Co-operation and Development, or private South Africa (SABS), Spain (AENOR), on harmonized metrics for benchmarking standards tailored to communities. These certification systems such as BREEAM Sweden (SIS) and United Kingdom (BSI) smartness of infrastructures. may be as diverse as a business centre in Communities, Casbee City, HQE Amé- Sustainable development an industrialized country, a rural area in nagement or LEED Neighborhood – has projects are flourishing • 16 observer countries : Argentina A family of standards a developing country, a mountain area, led to the creation of technical committee all around the world. (IRAM), Australia (SA), Brazil (ABNT), a seaside resort or even an indigenous or ISO/TC 268, Sustainable development in Colombia (ICONTEC), Czech Republic A number of mirror committees bringing nomadic community. communities. (UNMZ), Egypt (EOS), Finland (SFS), together the best experts from all member ISO 37101 is being developed by ISO/TC India (BIS), the Republic of Korea bodies are being set up. They will provide 268/WG 1, Management Systems Standards Finally, ISO/TC 268 also has a subcom- (KATS), Malaysia (DSM), Norway (SN), ISO/TC 268 with information on the state A common language mittee dedicated to smart urban infrastruc- Singapore (SPRING SG), Switzerland of the art in sustainable development and tures, subcommittee SC 1, Smart community planning, and on the needs and expectations Sustainable development projects in rural (SNV), Thailand (TISI), United Arab or urban areas are flourishing all around the infrastructures, with two preliminary items of the various communities throughout Emirates (ESMA) and USA (ANSI). world. Stakeholders are confused because already included in its work programme : the world. there is no international consensus on the ISO/TR 37150, a technical report on smart evaluation of community projects from cra- dle to grave, hence the need for International A priority will be Standards on sustainable development and to develop a common resilience in communities. language for all A priority will be to develop a common language for all stakeholders and thereby stakeholders. contribute to greater clarity and harmoni- zation in this field. This is why a manage- ment system standard is vital. ISO/TC 268 Drawing on the example of the ISO 14000 will thus focus on the development of a environmental management series, management system standard, ISO 37101, ISO/TC 268 will develop a large family Sustainable development and resilience of standards and other deliverables on of communities – Management systems sustainable development in communities.
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The draft technical report on metrics for benchmarking smart urban infrastructures developed within the scope of ISO/TC 268/ Green buildings SC 1/WG 1, which is convened by Yoshiaki Ichikawa (Hitachi Electronics), inventories the various metrics used around the world. It identifies commonalities, contradictions and gaps and sets a roadmap which will be particularly useful when drafting the future standard.
Cities will be better able to share their experience and knowledge.
To foster consensus among interested of their permanence or their capacity parties at all stages in the development of to face unexpected events and to return a project – conception, operation and end- to normal within a reasonable time. of-life – it is essential for communities and This is what we would like to address will notably contribute to the evolution of in the standard. cross-sector, multidisciplinary, life cycle and global costing policies. Improved knowledge sharing Consensus building Laying tomorrow’s foundations today The draft standard on urban indicators ISO/TC 268 will thus lay the foundation developed within the scope of ISO/TC 268 for an international consensus on principles working group WG 2, Urban indicators, and approaches that each “ community ” by Dick van Dijk, Essam E. Khalil, Egil Öfverholm, Jonas Santesson and Stephen Turner convened by Patricia McCarney (Univer- will be able to replicate and adapt to its sity of Toronto), aims for a harmonization own needs and specificities. of terminology, indicators and methods. This will never prevent the above- Cities adopting this standard will then be mentioned disasters from occurring, but let Expectations about what buildings should be like have dramatically The SCs take into account the different better able to share their experience and us hope that it will help better anticipate changed over time. Now the industry must strive to meet demands specifications, challenges and innovations in the building industry. For example, a knowledge. Besides, comparative analy- them, limit their financial, environmental for functionality, comfort and design together with environmental ses will help them assess their respective and human costs and, most importantly, newcomer for building standardization is performance levels, which will encourage speed up restoration of normal living sustainability and energy efficiency. ISO has developed a toolbox sheep wool insulation – a renewable mate- a healthy competitive spirit. conditions. of practical state-of-the-art International Standards to meet today’s rial offering good thermal and acoustic building challenges. insulation performance as well as protec- tion against fire. In contrast to some other insulation types, wool’s uniquely high More than 100 building standards have moisture absorption is not compromised About the authors been developed by ISO technical commit- by its isolating performance. for sustainable development in communities. tees ISO/TC 163, Thermal performance and It will address two aspects which are today Jacques Lair Christian energy use in the built environment, and somewhat neglected in existing deliverables : is the Chair of Bougeard is ISO/TC 205, Building environment design. ISO/TC 205 • The specific notion of “ community ” : ISO/TC 59/SC 17, Convenor of the These standards help define, calculate and and ISO/TC 163 we believe that beyond the pure prop- Sustainability in ISO/TC 268/WG 1, test building elements, while addressing erty or infrastructure aspect often cov- buildings and civil Management sys- environmental concerns. Design and build- collaborate closely. ered by urban development standards, engineering works. tems standards for ing operation issues are also addressed by the community notion should not refer He is an engineer sustainable devel- the committees. to the territories to which human groups and a former opment in commu- At the other extreme of the spectrum relate, but to the actual human groups senior executive of nities. Since 2000, Innovative insulation are high-tech insulation materials such as themselves and their interactions with construction, building and civil engineer- he is President and CEO of Architectes vacuum insulation panels (VIPs), which their environment. ing companies. He has been a member Ingénieurs Associés (AIA Group). He Three ISO/TC 163 subcommittees (SCs) have very low thermal conductivity. Thin, • The notion of resilience : the snap- of the bureau and executive committee has an Engineering PhD from the École are responsible for the standards that define, VIC-based walls can help to maximize shot at a particular point in time of the of the Fédération Française du Bâtiment Centrale, Paris, France, and a Master’s calculate and test building elements, which usable interior space and offset high land actions taken to address sustainable (French Building Federation). degree in Architecture from the École des are essential for ensuring the energy effi- prices, and can be useful in the thoughtful development does not give a clear idea Beaux Art UPA, Versailles, France. ciency of buildings. renovation of culturally historic buildings.
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A matter of design required for building projects to achieve • Conversion of the delivered gas or is ISO 12655, Energy performance of build- necessary to integrate data from standards a rating or certification under the leading electricity and, for example, the pro- ings − Presentation of measured energy use (requirements), BEMSs, measurements and ISO/TC 205 has published standards green building rating systems. Often, the duced electricity from photovoltaic or of buildings. The standard will provide a building documentation. offering an integrated methodology for the minimum accepted is commissioning during (micro-)combined heat and power, to methodology that will serve as a common Existing standards do not yet cover these design of high-performance indoor environ- construction, which includes functional per- the overall energy use of the building basis to unify the collected data of measured demands. One example is hydraulic systems, ments. These standards exist within the formance testing of energy-related systems. building energy use, therefore facilitating where performance is greatly influenced This last requirement will be addressed by overarching framework of ISO 16813:2006, These systems also give additional credit to parallel analytical comparisons. by the use of new components such as Building environment design – Indoor the future ISO 16346, Energy performance projects such as commissioning involvement ISO 12655 will maximize consistency frequency-controlled pumps, dynamic environment – General principles. of buildings – Assessment of overall energy during design. In comprehensive commis- with the other standards discussed here as pressure balance valves and constant performance. sioning processes, design-phase commission- another step towards harmonization. pressure control valves. A new proposal Finally, it is important to define a single ing activities provide vital quality-related is being prepared to deal with this issue As technology numerical indicator that expresses overall enhancements to the design process. Complex operation within the JWG. energy performance. This can be used as and expectations Such enhancements also set the stage the basis for classification on an energy Since modern commercial buildings evolve, so does for meaningful commissioning activities Road ahead performance certificate and/or for judging have rather complex systems for heating in post-design project stages. ISO/TC 205 the work of ISO/TC 205 compliance against minimum requirements and cooling, it is important to define the Although much progress has already plans to include the design-related aspects of • Domestic hot water and ISO/TC 163. in building regulations. That is the job of the way energy goes through the building and been made in providing the tools to help commissioning in its future standardization • Appliances (in some cases) future ISO 16343, Energy performance of how it is controlled. the building industry ensure sustainable work. Through these and similar forward- The approach can be applied to evaluate buildings – Methods for expressing energy Building energy management systems buildings, the end of the road has not yet looking initiatives, ISO’s standards for indoor The comprehensive package of solu- the energy performance of badly insulated performance and for energy certification (BEMSs) are supposed to provide data on been reached. ISO must be ready to respond environmental design will remain relevant. tions developed with experts from around existing buildings, for example, compared of buildings. the performance of building technical sys- to rapidly evolving technology, and emerg- the world tackles energy-efficient and to that of new, nearly zero-energy build- The JWG has also started work on a tems. However, to carry out quality control ing global challenges that meet the needs indoor environmental quality design. The The holistic approach ings, in order to assess compliance with standard for addressing the indoor envi- of a building’s energy performance, it is of today and of the future. standards also cover building automation ronmental conditions assumed in energy ISO/TC 205 collaborates closely with minimum primary energy performance control systems, radiant systems and other performance calculations. ISO/TC 163, including in the adoption of requirements in building regulations. A systems that relate directly to the indoor Especially when addressing the energy new work items, as these are needed to nearly zero-energy performance can only environment. be achieved if all expertise and disciplines performance of nearly zero-energy build- improve the standardization of the design Notably, the standards aim to respond are effectively combined and coordinated. ings, many specific technologies need process. A joint working group (JWG) helps to design challenges while addressing The wide range of disciplines involved to be included in the overall calculation coordinate common areas between both sustainability concerns. As technology and means that this work is quite challenging, procedures such as : committees and has developed a holistic expectations evolve, so does the work of but also important and urgent. Examples • High-performance thermal insulation approach to address buildings’ energy ISO/TC 205, in order to ensure continual include : materials performance. benefits. Under this approach, energy performance • Thermal insulation • Thermal solar systems • Façade technologies Commissioning comprises : • Photovoltaic systems • Heating • Passive solar techniques • Combined heat and power Building commissioning refers to the • Cooling • Ventilation systems and air infiltration quality process to verify and document that • Heating, ventilation and air-condition- the completed project meets the owner’s • Lighting JWG uses a holistic ing systems needs. Commissioning at some level is • Ventilation approach to address • Day-lighting and lighting systems buildings’ energy • Building and system control performance. • Automation
This holistic approach requires a com- mon set of terms, definitions and symbols, • Ventilation heat recovery which are provided in the newly published • Active façades technical report ISO/TR 16344:2012, Energy • And micro-combined heat and power performance of buildings – Common terms, definitions and symbols for the overall A spin-off from these key energy perfor- energy performance rating and certification. mance items currently under development The approach also requires : • Common rules on the assessment bound- ary of the building or building site About the authors • Calculation procedures for the interac- tion between energy uses (such as the Dick (H.A.L.) van Dijk, Prof. Dr. Essam E. Khalil, Egil Öfverholm, of Jonas Santesson, of Stephen Turner is way dissipation from lighting affects of the Netherlands-based of Cairo University, Egypt, the Swedish Energy SIS (ISO member for Chairman of Stephen the building’s thermal balance) research organization TNO, is is also Co-Convenor of Agency, is also Chair Sweden), is also Secre- Turner Inc. and Chair • Aggregation of the different energy also Co-Convenor of JWG of JWG of ISO/TC 205 and of ISO/TC 163. tary of ISO/TC 163. of ISO/TC 205. uses ISO/TC 205 and ISO/TC 163. ISO/TC 163.
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Determining energy savings and communicate scores at different levels, and to improve performance. Measurement, calculation and verifica- When used properly, the standards can tion have established themselves as the bring users significant advantages and cornerstone to stimulate technologies and benefits. These include : policies and encourage efficiency. • More opportunities to identify worth- According to the International Energy while investment in technologies/ Agency, when determining energy savings it projects is important to ensure consistency in method- • Enhanced clarity in understand- ology ; overcome uncertainties in quantifying ing energy savings in projects/ the benefits of investments ; and stimulate organizations/regions increased private-sector involvement. Formed in 2010, ISO/TC 257 is actively • Greater confidence in the guaranteed/ involved in developing the basic standards declared energy savings for projects for determining energy savings in projects, organizations and regions ; and providing effective tools, including quantitative Total potential energy methodologies, to enable stakeholders to savings could reach better define, adopt, manage and improve 82,1 EJ by 2030. technical and management measures. When used properly, these tools can provide significant advantages and benefits to users in the private and public sectors. • Increased potential to use energy As a solid technical foundation for energy rationally and to minimize waste savings quantification, ISO/TC 257’s work • More consistent, scientific and effec- products may create a flourishing market tive policy instruments to promote in energy saving. efficiency or cut consumption • Greater assurance for consumers of the Potential users of the standards validity of energy savings • More firmly grounded assessments of Although some of their particular reasons GHG emission reductions linked to Re-energizing may vary, both the private and public sec- projects/organizations/programmes tors are keen to save energy and increase • No technical barriers for energy effi- energy efficiency. ciency services energy saving For International Standards on this issue, target users may include : These advantages and benefits contribute • Organizations quantifying their tally directly and indirectly to the interested Boosting global efforts to save in relation to energy saving projects, parties’ commitments to improved energy Working framework for measurement, calculation installing the equipment and imple- performance and sustainable development. and verification of energy savings energy and the environment menting the programmes • Investors evaluating projects and/or Working framework technologies Items Figure 1 shows the working framework • Policy makers evaluating and quan- Comparison for measuring, calculating and verifying Comparison by Li Pengcheng and Li Tienan tifying the energy savings of energy energy savings. According to the work- with periodic Others Products/ with others efficiency policies and programmes ing scope, five categories are proposed to systems/ trend ver recent years, concerns about rising energy demands and • Stakeholders quantifying cuts in GHG promote the development of standards in processes O ISO/TC 257. These are : Types of measurement, calculation and verification climate change have greatly affected global energy-related practices. emissions due to initiatives at project, organizational or regional level • General technical rules Projects Both suppliers and users of energy resources now have to work to- • Guidance on cross-cut issues ward conservation and increasing efficiency. Absolute amount of energy Energy consumption Benefits of the standards • Methodology for regions Organizations consumption intensity • Methodology for organizations Adopting ISO standards to determine ISO technical committee ISO/TC 257, restrain energy consumption and reduce • Methodology for projects Energy Deployment diffusion rates of energy savings – whether in projects, Regions Others General technical rules for determination of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. efficiency products/technologies/facilities energy savings in renovation projects, indus- The gains could be huge : total potential organizations or regions – can help to man- To enhance collaboration in related tech- trial enterprises and regions, has a key role energy savings could reach 82,1 EJ by age increased numbers of national, regional nical subjects at an organizational level, an to play in cutting global energy consumption. 2030, exceeding the annual electricity and private methodologies. ISO/TC 242, Energy management (leading Metrics used for measurement, calculation and verification Energy savings and the resulting improved consumption in 2009 of China, Japan and International Standards will provide the body)-ISO/TC 257 joint working group energy efficiency are the best ways to the USA combined. comprehensive tools to better understand (JWG) for the Measurement and verification Figure 1 : Working framework for quantifying energy savings.
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Special Report Towards the ultra-efficient home ISO standard supports the development of energy-efficient homes
by Takao Sawachi
ISO 13153:2012, Framework of the design process for energy- saving single-family residential of organizational energy performance – and small commercial buildings, General principles and guidelines, has also WG 1 – Definition of a methodological framework applicable to calculation helps architects and designers to been established. and reporting on energy savings (ISO 17743*) develop energy-efficient buildings Work programme well suited to their locations.
Prior working items include general There are many ways to make a home technical rules and some fundamental WG 2 WG 3 WG 4 more energy efficient. However, for all the methodologies. These subjects will build available options, architects, designers of the framework of principles and essential General calculation General technical rules General calculation home energy systems and other building- guidelines for developing special method- design professionals still need more reliable methods on energy for measurement, methods on energy ologies in different levels of items. quantitative information on energy saving efficiency and savings calculation and efficiency and savings As shown in Figure 2, the following four according to the method used. for countries, regions verification of energy for organisations and standards have already been launched as For example, in a particular building or cities savings of projects other enterprises new work-in-progress items and approved project, they would like to know how much (ISO 17742*) (ISO 17741*) (ISO 17747*) for registration within ISO/TC 257 : energy can be saved by a certain increase in Timely new standard the building envelope’s thermal resistance, There are many ways • Definition of a methodological frame- * New project. by using a more energy-efficient water to make a home more Responding to this need, ISO 13153:2012 work applicable to calculation and heater and so on. If the initial cost increase is intended to assist and support the devel- reporting Figure 2 : ISO/TC 257 working groups (WGs). is known, they can then calculate operational energy efficient. opers of design guidelines, architects and • General calculation methods on energy cost savings and the payback period. other building-design professionals. The efficiency and savings for countries, standard provides the framework to express regions or cities About the authors Cooking such quantitative knowledge and includes Heating • General technical rules for measure- 4.4 an example in its annex. 12.8 The key parameters are “ reference energy ment, calculation and verification of Dr. Li Prof. Li Tienan Electric appliances consumption ” and “ energy consumption energy savings for projects Pengcheng is is Deputy Gen- Cooling an associate eral Manager of China 23.7 ratio ”. The former is the base energy • General calculation methods for 2.4 researcher at Quality Mark Certifi- consumption for each energy use, before organizations and other enterprises the China Na- cation Group (CQM). Ventilation adopting any energy saving measures (see Figure 1 for an example), and the latter is More subjects could be developed as tional Institute He is also Chair of 4.7 of Standardi- ISO/TC 257. the ratio of predicted energy consumption, International Standards, or as a part of Inter- zation. He is Prof. Tienan has over after adopting a certain method, to the national Standards, and all are intended to also Secretary 25 years’ experience reference energy consumption. enrich guidelines and tools to develop special of ISO/TC 257. Dr. Pengcheng has in International Standards, including having Table 1 shows the energy consumption methodologies in different levels of items. extensive experience in the stand- played a key role in the introduction of ISO Hot water ratio for the thermal performance of the They are : energy savings through efficient Lighting ardization of energy efficiency for 9000 (quality management) in China. He 24.5 building envelope for detached houses in services ; through evaluators ; through the energy-using products, energy effi- manages product certification programmes 10.7 a relatively mild climate. quality of data for quantification ; analysis ciency services and the measurement for CQM on conformity, energy efficiency, The specification of each level must be of potential ; and the evaluation and declara- and verification of energy savings. water conservation, environmental protec- Figure 1 : Reference energy consumption (GJ/year/household) of an average four-person clearly explained in the design guidelines. tion of energy savings. tion and safety. detached home, built around 2000 and in a mild climate. Building-design professionals can estimate
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the energy consumption for space heat- Reference energy Energy consumption ratios for different levels (specifications) of other than those facing north ± 30° is ing simply by multiplying the reference consumption thermal performance of the building envelope 0.3 or less Annual energy consumption per household (GJ) energy consumption and one of the energy (for space heating) Level 0 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 4 6. Energy efficiency of cooling equip- consumption ratios of the adopted level. ment/Level 3 : air-to-air heat-pump For instance, if they choose Level 3 for air conditioners with COP higher 12.8 Giga-Joules/ 1.0 0.80 0.65 0.55 0.45 90 the envelope of a certain detached house than 6.0 83.2 GJ cooking project, energy consumption for space year/household 80 7. Ventilation system planning/Level 2 : heating is estimated to be 12.8 x 0.55 (GJ), consumer Table 1 : Reference energy consumption for space heating, and energy consumption ratios for the shortest route of ducting with at 70 Additional which is equal to 7.0 (GJ). electronics different levels of thermal performance of the building envelope. least 75 mm diameter, and the adop- A complete set of energy consumption 60 installation of PV tion of a fan with small specific fan lighting ratios is shown in Table 2. (4.6 kW) power 50 For all elemental technologies, Level 0 expressed in an energy consumption ratio, set, and its reference energy consumption 44.2 GJ service 40 means the basis specification. In this case, but in the amount of energy reduction. It is 4.4 GJ. 8. Solar water heating and hot-water water heating no reduction of energy consumption can be means that if photovoltaic panels of 3 kW Figure 2 illustrates a complete example system planning/Level 4 : solar 30 ventilation expected and its energy consumption ratio (Level 1) and 4 kW (Level 2) are installed, of designing for an ultra-energy-efficient system with solar heat collector of 2 20 is inevitably 1.0. energy consumption is reduced by 29.3 GJ home. Suppose the designer selects levels at least 3.5 m , and condensing gas cooling 10 For photovoltaic power generation, and 39.1 GJ, respectively. No energy sav- of specification marked in blue inTable 2. boiler its effectiveness in saving energy is not ing method for cooking is assumed in this In the design guidelines complying with 9. Daylight utilization/Level 2 : low- 0 heating density area, with every habitable this standard, the explanation of each Reference Energy efficient Zero energy technological element and levels of speci- room having two openings design house Reference Energy consumption ratio Elemental technology fication aims to facilitate design-guideline Energy use energy (reference value considered to be 1.0) 10. Lighting system planning/Level 2 : implementation. consumption Design conditions Level 0 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 4 lamps’ efficiency exceeds 70 lm/W, As an example, here is a combination Insulated building envelope dimming function in the main habit- Figure 2 : Example of energy-efficient design, in which specifications 1-11 of elemental 1.0 0.8 0.65 0.55 0.45 planning of 11 elemental technologies and levels able room and timer/sensor to at least technologies are adopted. Table 3 shows how energy consumption can be calculated by reference energy consumptions and energy consumption ratios. Use of solar radiation heat* 1.0 0.95 0.9 0.8 0.6 of specification : one light fitting Space 12.8 GJ Heating Partial 1. Insulating building envelope plan- 11. Introducing high-efficiency consumer heating and cooling intermittent ning/Level 3 : envelope (opaque electronics/Level 2 : adopt television Assessing energy consumption The energy consumption of consumer system heating by 1.0 0.8 0.7 0.6 parts and windows) compliant planning room air (with rated electric power of 75 W electronics cannot be easily estimated simply with a certain energy conservation (heating) conditioner or lower), refrigerator (annual power For this design process, there is a strong by using information found in their brochures. standard Natural ventilation for heat 1.0 0.85 0.8 0.7 consumption of 520 kWh or lower), need for reliable and unbiased evidence for Fortunately though, many countries have South- 2. Use of solar radiant heat/Level 2 : hot-water-heated toilet seat (annual reference energy consumptions and energy established energy calculation tools for 1.0 0.85 0.7 0.55 facing area ratio of windows facing south power consumption of 200 kWh or consumption ratios. This is especially so-called energy certification, and these Solar Southeast/ exceeds 20 % of the total floor area, lower), and washing machine with applicable to equipment for space heating can be used to determine reference energy shading Southwest- 1.0 0.8 0.75 0.65 and the thermal performance of win- inverter control. and cooling, and for providing hot water. consumptions and energy consumption ratios. method facing Space dows is one rank higher 2.4 GJ East/West- cooling 1.0 0.8 0.75 0.65 facing Heating Partial and cooling intermittent The design solution system cooling by 1.0 0.8 0.7 0.6 planning room air depends on factors (cooling) conditioner such as climate, site Ventilation system Ventilation 4.7 GJ 1.0 0.7 0.6 0.4 conditions, economics, planning Domestic Solar water heating and building type and 24.5 GJ 1.0 0.9 0.8 0.7 0.5 hot water hot-water system planning lifestyle. Daylight utilization 1.0 0.98 0.95 0.9 Lighting 10.7 GJ Lighting system planning 1.0 0.7 0.6 0.5 Consumer Introducing high-efficiency 23.7 GJ 1.0 0.8 0.6 electronics consumer electronics 3. Energy efficiency of heating equip- Other ment/Level 3 : air-to-air heat-pump 4.4 GJ - (cooking) air conditioners with a coefficient of Total 83.2 GJ - performance (COP) higher than 6.0 4. Natural ventilation for heat removal/ Photovoltaic power Power - -0.0 GJ -29.3 GJ -39.1 GJ Level 2 : low-density area, with two generation windows in every habitable room for cross-ventilation, or equivalent countermeasures for adequate wind- * Requires insulated building envelope planning of at least Level 3 induced ventilation
Table 2 : Relationship between energy use, reference energy consumption, elemental technology 5. Solar shading method/Level 3 : solar and energy consumption ratio at each level of specification. heat gain coefficient of windows
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Equations to predict the design values by Predicted energy consumption or Reference energy Reduction Energy use inserting energy consumption ratios into power generation consumption rate (%) blankets, referring to Table 2 Space heating 12.8 ([0.55] × [0.9] × [0.6]) 3.8 GJ 12.8 GJ -70 % Space cooling 2.4 × ([0.8] × [0.55] × [0.6]) 0.6 GJ 2.4 GJ -75 % Ventilation 4.7 × [0.6] 2.8 GJ 4.7 GJ -40 % Domestic hot 24.5 × [0.5] 12.3 GJ 24.5 GJ -50 % water Lighting 10.7 × ([0.95] × [0.6]) 6.1 GJ 10.7 GJ -43 % Service life planning Consumer 23.7 × [0.6] 14.2 GJ 23.7 GJ -40 % electronics Responding to the needs Other (cooking) 4.4 × 1.0 4.4 GJ 4.4 GJ 0 % Subtotal 83.2 GJ by Kathryn Bourke of an evolving industry
course were particularly good at sourcing Power Power generation by photovoltaic cells “ If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants ” is a quotation normally attributed to Isaac Newton, although he borrowed it original thinking. depending on the capacity (3 kW or 4 kW) -0 GJ - They also brought us into close contact from early writers. This points to the development of future intellectual (square -29.3 GJ (3kW) square -39.1 GJ (4kW)) with aligned organizations, such as the pursuits by understanding and building on the research and works cre- international construction research organi- ated by notable past thinkers. It is certainly true of the technical commit- zation (CIB), and with conferences, where Total 44.2 GJ 83.2 GJ -47 % tee and subcommittee of which I am a member, ISO technical commit- relevant papers were presented. Our closest link was with the triennial Table 3 : Calculation of predicted energy consumption and energy saving. tee ISO/TC 59, Buildings and civil engineering works, subcommittee “ Durability of Materials and Components ” SC 14, Design life. conference – to the extent that we normally Early use of ISO 13153 meet one year in three. This ensures we meet like-minded individuals who bring In Japan, following the framework of their own contributions and solutions. the design process specified in ISO 13153, three design guidelines have been developed for detached houses in cold, mild and hot- Broad expertise humid climates. From the start, we had representatives Also in Japan, more than 14 000 experts who were difficult to put into any single have participated in building design seminars category – I am one myself – who had (see Photo right). crossed from one discipline to another. There seems to be a huge market for This challenged us to widen our narrow design guidelines for energy-efficient “ home territory ”. buildings. These enable architects and We had travelled a variety of routes to other building-design professionals to find a a similar place, and all had something to swift solution appropriate to their particular offer the committee. building project. Over time, the committee’s work A seminar for design guidelines. changed as the representation changed.
In Japan, three design For example, when budgets are limited, guidelines have been such as in developing countries, design About the author developed for detached guidelines should focus on affordable elemental technologies. Takao Sawachi, SC 14 was the result of the vision of assets or works. We had many long discus- houses in cold, mild and If a certain industry hopes to promote Dr. Eng., is Direc- one man, Sir Roger Browne, and his com- sions on purpose, scope and title – suffice it hot-humid climates. its products to help save energy, it should tor at the Building mitment to a subject he believed was ripe to say that we know the value of clarifying develop its own product design guidelines Research Institute, for standardization, service life planning. what we are trying to achieve, why, how for its architect and building-design clients. Japan. He is also The result was ISO 15686, Buildings and and for whom. Generally speaking, the design solu- ISO 13153 highlights the importance Project Leader in constructed assets – Service life planning ; Initially, the committee principally com- tion depends on factors such as climate, of reliable energy consumption ratios. ISO technical com- 25 years later and 10 published parts on, it prised materials scientists, mainly from a site conditions, economics, building type For all its benefits though, it must be mittee ISO/TC 205, seems he was right ! research background, although all had close and lifestyle. For this reason, it is not remembered that this standard is only Building envi- Starting with a blank piece of paper, we links with industry and had their “ feet on acceptable to apply a general rule-of- one of the possible frameworks for design ronment design, which developed ISO developed guidance on how to plan the the ground ”. They brought scientific rigour thumb of building design to all situations. guidelines for building energy saving. 13153:2012. service life of buildings or other constructed and discipline to our discussions, and of
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Gradually, the focus moved to solving the Not reinventing wheels national mirror committees freely contrib- problems linked to working in integrated uted to reviewing and improving the drafts Another key theme is interaction between teams. at ballot points. different but related standards, which have To give an example, the theme of sus- Few of us are funded now (other than been, or are being, developed both internally tainable construction has changed from an and nationally. We are liaising closely with for travel expenses), either nationally or academic pursuit to a real and challenging ongoing work within CEN, the European internationally. I know that we could not professional dilemma. Indeed, I lead a standardization body, on the integrated have achieved what has been done without working group that focuses on balancing assessment of sustainable construction. the core work done early on by representa- environmental and economic impacts. We have also built on the work carried tives who could spend a week or two really Another working group is tackling the out by the Architectural Institute of Japan working on a draft. many problems of applying the overall and by the National Institute of Standards This is a dilemma for a committee whose Funding is a big methodology of service life planning to and Technology in the USA. focus is not on a single product or material open source data transfer, for example, Work in the Nordic countries, the USA or profession – which individual organiza- challenge. through the future ISO 16739, Industry and the United Kingdom (UK) has heavily tions benefit enough from the work of the contributed to several parts of ISO 15686 Foundation Classes (IFC) for data sharing committee to pay for the time of the com- within our committee. We contribute, both in the construction and facility management mittee members ? industries. individually and as a committee, to the work of other groups, who now find our output Most members give their time freely and useful and relevant. our employers donate our time to attend the Don’t neglect the terms meetings, but it is hard to work outside of Terminology is probably the most recog- Challenges ahead the meetings, and paid work often has to nizable and universal area for those involved take precedence. Funding is a big challenge. When I Following this, progress has slowed, in codes and standards development. started, my own work was funded by the the mean age of committee members has There is another risk, too. If we move too When I first started working in the UK government, and many representatives increased, and representation by government, committee, I was a drafting consultant for who provided the foundations for the work slowly, each local interest group will develop This is a plea academics, clients and users has fallen. ISO 15686-1, Buildings and constructed were similarly funded. We were free to be its own methods to resolve problems. As for working together. assets – Service life planning − Part 1 : independent contributors to a joint resolu- Of course the risk is that we become less each group becomes committed to its local General principles and framework. As a tion of issues affecting a broad spectrum relevant, or less independent, or less rigor- approach, which represents a considerable novice in standardization, I did not pay a of industries and professions. ous. I believe the purpose of this committee investment of time and resources (and pos- lot of attention to terms and definitions. Professional institutions played their is to develop methodologies and guidance sibly also an income stream), the chances To conclude, this is a plea for working There seemed to be a long list of terminol- part, too, in sponsoring and identifying where the need is foreseeable, but not yet of coming together to produce a common together – because together we can see ogy with specific definitions, and similar local experts to contribute. In addition, obvious. approach are greatly reduced. further. sounding concepts. At the time I thought that “ component ” was a good generic term for all the vari- ous terms others had used, such as asset, material, assembly, system and part. In the About the author long term, I realized that we should have proceeded differently. Kathryn Bourke, MA, MRICS, We had travelled MPhil, is Con- venor of ISO/ a variety of routes to TC 59/SC 14, a similar place, and all WG 4, Mainte- had something to offer nance and life the committee. cycle costing, and the UK representa- tive to CEN/TC 350/WG 4. Ms. Bourke is Managing Director of Whole Life Although we have recently worked closely with ISO/TC 59/SC 2, Terminol- Ltd. (www.wholelifeltd.co.uk) and a ogy and harmonization of languages, to specialist consultant on whole-life cost align our terms more closely with other and value in construction. She has over standards, it would have been much easier 20 years’ experience in issues relating to if we knew then what we know now. Over long-term performance, costs and value many years the committee has developed of buildings and components. With a terms specific to our work, but this meant background in law and as a chartered missing some chances to build on the work building surveyor, most of her work of our predecessors for greater harmony currently involves construction cost and consistency. consultancy.
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Smart cities exemplify how sustainable development can go hand in hand with increasing How ISO makes consumption and economic growth. ISO standards play a key role in the construction and development of cities – today and our cities smarter tomorrow. Here are just some examples among hundreds of others.
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN COMMUNITIES URBAN RESILIENCE ENERGY CLEAN ENERGY INTELLIGENT MANAGEMENT AIR SAVINGS AND SYSTEMS SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGS
SERVICE ZERO- SUSTAINABLE SOCIETAL LIFE ENERGY EVENT SECURITY PLANNING BUILDINGS MANAGEMENT
DRINKING WATER AND WASTEWATER SERVICES
ROAD SAFETY
ENERGY- SAVING GREENER SINGLE-FAMILY CARS AND SMALL COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS
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of the city’s actors improve their resilience, there is an aggregate effect across the entire network. An inter-disciplinary approach helps to cope with the sensitivity of our complex Crisis-proofing society. This enables knowledge and prac- tices to be shared and the positive effects of synergies to be realized. The result is a dynamic, adaptive and integrated approach cities towards global change, safety and security.
As more of the city’s actors improve their resilience, there is an aggregate effect across the entire network.
The generic standards for individual organizations such as those produced by ISO/TC 223 are important prerequisites for the inter-disciplinary approach advo- Preparing for the worst cated above. Organizations and sectors that rely on a Actors that have assessed, adapted network and each other can use these generic and prepared their businesses for today’s standards to assist with the coordination of changing world will together build a more business processes. The efforts and prac- resilient city. tices of each individual organization are In progress, ISO 22316, Societal security aggregated across the network, increasing – Organizational resilience – Principles and ISO standards are making cities more resilient the resilience of both the network and the guidelines, guides businesses in developing organizations that depend on it. an organizational capacity that is adaptive Below are a few of the issues that need to changes and events. Often referred to to be addressed in a resilient city, and as “ resilience ”, this capacity brings an some of the ways in which our standards internal culture that secures transformation will help. It is important to note that and renewal during interactions and events. ISO/TC 223 standards are produced for Another essential preparation is a struc- public and private organizations in such tured approach to manage the large and areas as : resilience, exercises, public/pri- diverse risks that may cause an interruption. vate partnership, emergency management, ISO 22301:2012, Societal security – capability assessment, mass evacuation, Business continuity management systems and continuity management. – Requirements, and ISO 22313:2012, by Åsa Kyrk Gere and Stefan Tangen Societal security – Business continuity management systems – Guidance, enable an your city withstand incidents and emergencies, can it respond necessarily negative. However, this does businesses to obtain services and implement C continuity management to maintain opera- and recover, and can it save lives along the way ? ISO technical com- create unique risks when multiple actors depend on similar infrastructure. tions. The standards provide a process to mittee ISO/TC 223, Societal security, is addressing these issues and deal with and/or eliminate risks to protect developing International Standards to boost urban resilience. their businesses and ensure the provision ISO/TC 223 is of electricity, water and other key services. Our society is becoming more hetero- crises. For example, a relatively isolated Preparations, plans and implemented pro- geneous. This is creating larger and more electrical power cut in one part of a city developing International cesses contribute to appropriate awareness complicated networks and makes us more can easily affect both that and other areas. Standards to boost and development. Exercises are essential vulnerable and dependent than before. A multi-sector crisis places great demands urban resilience. in preparations and make sure everything Complex networks lead to unforeseen on inter-organizational coordination and works properly. The future ISO 22398, dependencies between actors and across cooperation with other actors, as well as on Societal security – Guidelines for exercises, sectors. In turn, disruptions in these networks prepared and trained organizations. In this situation, standards can provide helps businesses to plan and carry out joint have unpredictable results which can quickly A network with many heterogeneous processes to reduce dependencies and so exercises and test their preparations, ability escalate and trigger larger, multi-sector actors has many benefits and is not increase organizational resilience. As more and capacity to deal with unexpected events.
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sure all relevant parties are closely aligned Often a specific message that requires Colour Meaning Suggestion during a disaster, minimizing the risk of practical action must be disseminated to a misunderstandings and securing a more large group. Effective public warning can Take appropriate effective use of combined resources. prevent a panic reaction and help response Red Danger safety action People in the city need to be warned when organizations to optimize their responses. immediately something happens. Under development, ISO 22322, Societal security – Emergency Prepare for taking management – Public warning, provides Yellow Caution appropriate safety ISO/TC 223’s standards principles and generic guidelines for provide some action developing, managing and implementing of the answers. No need to take public warning before, during and after Green Safety incidents. This enables response organiza- safety action tions to alert their responders and at-risk Figure 1 : Colour codes and their meanings. people to take safety measures. To warn the public effectively, pre- prepared colour-coded alerts can be used. Effective emergency Also under development, ISO 22324, management Societal security – Emergency manage- Incident ment – Colour-coded alert, assists with When disasters strike, it is important to drawing rapid attention to the severity protect people at risk. Without effective of a situation so that people can respond emergency management, lives will be lost and there may also be significant damage Feedback Continual improvement of business continuity management system (BCMS) to a city’s businesses and economy. Implementation and control ISO 22320:2011, Societal security – of decisions Emergency management – Requirements for incident response, applies to all the private- Establish and public-sector organizations that can be involved in incident response and enables (Plan) them to work efficiently and effectively. Information Interested Interested The standard outlines global best practice gathering parties parties and sharing for establishing organizational structures Maintain and and procedures for emergency manage- improve (Act) Implement and ment, decision support, traceability and Decision Assessment operate (Do) information management. Interoperability making of situation and Requirements Managed among involved organizations is essential and sharing forecast for business business for successful incident response and overall continuity Monitor and continuity emergency management. Planning ISO 22320:2011 also helps to ensure review (Check) timely, relevant and accurate operational information by specifying processes, work systems, data capture and management. In addition, it establishes a foundation Figure 2 : Example of the command and control process in a single hierarchical organization Figure 3 : Management system for business continuity management. for coordination and cooperation, making with limited coordination needs. accordingly. ISO 22324 standardizes alert colours to indicate the degree of danger, About the authors regardless of the type of hazard. These are mainly intended to help people – who Åsa Kyrk Gere Dr. Stefan Tangen may lack the expert knowledge about a is Chair of is Secretary of particular hazard – maintain or increase ISO/TC 223, Soci- ISO TC 223, Soci- their personal safety. etal security. She etal security. He is works as a senior also Secretary of Greater resilience expert at MSB, the the joint technical Swedish Civil Con- coordination group Now that half of the world’s inhabitants tingencies Agency, on management live in cities, we are faced with increasingly on emergency and system stand- difficult issues linked to urban adaptation, disaster management, often with a focus ards harmonization. A project manager climate change and societal security. on international coordination and coop- at SIS, the Swedish Standards Insti- ISO/TC 223’s standards provide some eration for civil protection. tute, Dr. Tangen holds a PhD in Produc- of the answers and play a useful role in Ms. Kyrk Gere holds a Master’s degree in tion Engineering. creating more resilient cities. Political Science.
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In many countries, road crashes are the Notable differences many organizations would have to cooper- biggest culprits when it comes to deaths and ate with, or consider, other stakeholders serious injuries. ISO 39001 was published ISO 39001 has a few elements that are in the system. This is even more relevant in October 2012 partly to support the United unique within the family of management if the organization is a car manufacturer Nations’ (UN) Decade of Action for Road system standards. Firstly, the long-term or a road administration. Safety. Covering the period 2011 to 2020, target is already set and only organizations the UN initiative aims to halt the global wishing to eliminate accident-related deaths rise in road traffic casualties. and serious injuries should use the stand- ard. While elimination is quite normal in We expect ISO 39001 production processes, it has been a far less to be particularly popular Road crashes cause common approach in road traffic. – and to save many lives. Another key difference from other more deaths and serious management system standards is that injuries than anything some factors are mandatory. Organizations else. must meet vehicle safety, use of restraint Overall, ISO 39001 has great potential to systems and speed compliance. tackle one of the most dangerous challenges ISO 39001 also places greater emphasis of our times, road traffic safety. Now, it is on the external context. As road transport up to organizations around the world to Almost all organizations use roads for and safety can be understood as a system, start using it and save lives. delivery of goods and services. ISO 39001 outlines a management system to enable these organizations to integrate safety into their use of roads. The standard will help them improve safety in a structured and simple way.
Significant benefits Compliance with speed limits, avoiding driving under the influence of alcohol and ISO 39001 will assist governmental drugs, and using personal safety equipment and private sector organizations alike by such as helmets and seat belts, offer plenty providing a structured, holistic approach of potential for society and individuals. to road traffic safety as a complement to But an organizational approach can take existing programmes and regulations. It this even further. With ISO 39001 it is is based on the process approach, proven possible to : by successful ISO standards such as • Improve the well-being of employees ISO 9001:2008 for quality management, and transport contractors including the Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle, Facilitate the use of new technology and a requirement for continual improve- • to improve behaviour and limit the ment. This makes it highly accessible to consequences of human failure organizations that already implement other ISO management systems. We, therefore, • Enable organizations to become more expect ISO 39001 to be particularly popular, effective and reduce their costs saving many lives. • Help organizations to be seen as good In fact, the standard can have a significant corporate citizens positive effect, due to the large amount of traffic generated by organizations and to Saving lives the many vehicles they own or rent. This, in turn, could benefit the rest of the About the authors road transport system. If all taxis, buses, ISO 39001 will make roads safer trucks, rental cars and company cars operate Peter Hartzell Dr. Claes Tingvall at the highest safety standard, there would is Secretary of is Chair of be fewer fatalities and injuries. Similarly, ISO/TC 241, ISO/TC 241 and by Peter Hartzell and Claes Tingvall if road administrations, the police, vehicle Road traffic safety Director of Traf- manufacturers, suppliers and others adopt management sys- fic Safety at the ISO 39001, our roads would be safer. tems, and Project Swedish Transport Road accidents account for some 1.3 million fatalities each year. In the past, attempts to improve road Manager for the Administration. The number of people killed is on the increase, particularly in low- safety have focused on the behaviour of Swedish techni- He is also an and middle-income countries. Use of ISO 39001:2012, Road traffic individual road users, and particularly on cal committee on Adjunct Professor education, enforcement and engineering. quality management. He has a degree in at the Department of Applied Mechanics safety (RTS) management systems – Requirements with guidance for These, however, proved largely ineffective, business and over 18 years’ experience in at Chalmers University of Technology, use, can help reduce death and serious injury due to road accidents. and sometimes even counterproductive. management systems. Gothenburg.
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Cuba’s 50th anniversary in ISO • Handling of atmosphere gases • Safety-related control systems of industrial Ernesto “ Che ” Guevara, the then Minister furnaces of Industry in Cuba, requested that the Oficina Nacional de Normalización (NC) join ISO – • Vocabulary. the Cuban member is celebrating today its 50th anniversary. Standards and regulations During his visit to Cuba in October 2012, How can standards work alongside poli- ISO Secretary-General Rob Steele congratu- cies and regulations ? This is the theme of lated the Cuban member on its involvement : an international workshop to take place on “ NC participates in many areas of the ISO 7 February 2013 in London, United Kingdom. standards development work, taking part in The event, hosted by ISO and the Brit- over 200 technical committees and steadily ish Standards Institution (BSI), will bring increasing their use of new ISO IT tools and together business leaders, policy makers and other services, with an excellent voting record.” senior standards professionals, including ISO He encouraged NC to participate even Coalbed methane experts at the plenary in Beijing, China. further in ISO technical work, and to fully The new committee will standardize require- reap the benefits of international standardiza- From left : ISO Secretary-General Rob Steele with the President of the Peruvian Congress Víctor ments and disseminate best practice in order tion : “ We hope to see Cuba become a more Isla Rojas (centre) and the Parliamentary Speaker of the ruling party Jaime Delgado (right). to promote international communication and active standards maker in the future, and collaboration, and facilitate the development drive International Standards development efficiency ”. He also had the opportunity to groups were revised and aligned to meet future of this innovative technology. relevant to the country’s economic, social learn about the skills and needs of the ISO needs. A number of existing standards were At its first plenary, it was agreed that future and environmental development.” member for Peru, INDECOPI. confirmed as up-to-date, and drafts on future work would target : Rob Steele also met with the Minister and The ISO Secretary-General said : “ This is standards advanced to the next stage. • Terminology and definitions in resource Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Science my first visit to the country, and I am impressed The Society of Motion Picture and Televi- evaluation, engineering, production and Technology and the Environment, as well as by the dedication, hard work and enthusiasm sion Engineers was encouraged to submit development, and other related fields the Minister of Foreign Trade and Foreign from everyone I met at INDECOPI, and by their standards to ISO/TC 36 for eventual Reservoir evaluation, production prediction Investments. • the stakeholders and government officials I publication as International Standards on and resource evaluation NC has twice taken on a key role in ISO have had the opportunity to speak to. ” such subjects as : Council, the organization’s governance body. • Exploration, development and utilization Rob Steele noted the country’s advances • Archive frame rates for D-Cinema It is also a longstanding member of the ISO • Production and development and development in standardization and policy development committees on conform- • Reference projector and environment encouraged INDECOPI to fully take advantage ity assessment, consumers, and developing • Theater projection leader The plenary was attended by experts from of the services ISO offers to its members. countries. NC has participated in various • Trailer and cue marks China, Germany, India and South Africa. The Agreement was made on the importance of Biogas experts at the ISO/TC 255 plenary in China. training events hosted by ISO in recent years. event was hosted by SAC, the ISO member for increasing awareness of INDECOPI’s use of Julian Pinn was reappointed Chair for a China – which holds the Chair and Secretariat ISO’s e-services, the online browsing plat- new three-year term. The committee agreed of the committee – and by the China National the committee, and the Ministry of Agriculture Secretary-General Rob Steele, to discuss how form and ISOlutions among others. An ISO to meet again in Beijing, China, in 2014. Petroleum Corporation. of the People’s Republic of China hosted the standards can contribute to regulations. expert will follow up to assist INDECOPI in An international conference on CBM inaugural meeting. Standards can be a low-cost solution for implementation. Bright future with coalbed methane development and utilization technology and local, national and international government standardization followed the plenary. The Safe and efficient industrial bodies looking to support policies with flexible, ISO in Hollywood A new ISO technical committee on coal- consensus-based tools with a high degree of bed methane (CBM), ISO/TC 263, held its event was attended by about 100 participants, furnaces including several multinational companies. market acceptance. The ISO technical committee respon- first plenary meeting in October 2012, in ISO technical committee ISO/TC 244, The workshop will discuss such issues as : sible for cinema standards ISO/TC 36, Beijing, China. Industrial furnaces and associated processing • How can standards work alongside Cinematography, met in Hollywood, CBM is a form of natural gas extracted from Take-off for biogas equipment, held its fourth plenary meeting in regulations ? California, USA, in October 2012. The coal beds. Its development and use provides Kyoto, Japan, in November 2012. A new ISO technical committee, ISO/TC 255, • Are standards an effective alternative to meeting was attended by 26 delegates an alternative source of clean energy, easing ISO/TC 244 was created in 2008 to develop will develop standards for biogas. regulation ? from eight countries and two liaison the strain on the world’s dwindling oil and Biogas is a combustible mixture of gases standards for industrial furnaces and related • How can governments support delivery organizations. gas resources. Moreover, extraction of CMB produced by micro-organisms when manure equipment. It has already developed and pub- of their policies through using standards ? The main goal was to review the structure, improves the safety of coal mines by decreasing and other biological wastes are allowed to lished five International Standards addressing Left above : work programme and resources of the tech- the gas content of coal seam. It also reduces ferment in the absence of air. It can be an safety requirements and energy efficiency. • How can we build and nurture links between ISO Secretary- nical committee. The scopes of its working greenhouse gas emissions from mining. important source of fuel. Since biogas is a At the plenary, the committee focused on standards bodies and governments ? General Rob bi-product of waste, it is a global low-cost four draft standards dealing with : • Which examples of best practice already Steele visits Cuba in source of renewable energy. Its development • Combustion safety exist worldwide? October 2012. contributes to environmental protection, sani- Right above : Letter signed by Ernesto “ Che ” Guevara, requesting Cuba’s accession to ISO. tary improvement, nuisance-free agriculture and recycling. The first plenary meeting of ISO/TC 255 Encouraging Peru was held in October 2012, in Beijing, China. It ISO Secretary-General Rob Steele met with will cover the design, construction, check and the President of the Peruvian Congress and acceptance of installations, plants, equipment with the Director of the National Competi- and products to facilitate the exchange, transfer tiveness Council, of the Ministry of Economy and provision of biofuels in an economically and Finance, during a visit to Lima, Peru, in sustainable manner. October 2012. The plenary was attended by experts from The ISO Secretary-General celebrated World China, France, Germany, India, Israel, Kenya Standards Day 2012 on the theme of “ Less and South Africa. SAC, the ISO member for waste, better results – Standards increase Discussing cinema in Hollywood at the ISO/TC 36 plenary. China, which holds the Chair and Secretariat of Participants at the plenary on industrial furnaces in Kyoto, Japan.
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essential to get this element right. Sustain- LOCOG ability can achieve significant cost savings Event sustainability through resource efficiency, but it is hard to realize these without having a proper ISO Focus+ : When did LOCOG begin management system. implementing an event sustainability management management system following ISO 20121 ISO Focus+ : Can you describe some requirements and guidance ? of the initiatives and measures you have already taken in doing so ? ISO 20121 passes 2012 Olympic Games test David Stubbs : We identified the need for an effective sustainability management In response, David Stubbs pointed to system as part of our bid to host the Olym- LOCOG’s Pre-Games Sustainability Report, by Garry Lambert pic Games back in 2004/5. At the time we Delivering change, for details of initiatives identified a gap in the market for a sustain- implemented in conformity with ISO 20121. ability management system that addressed It stated : The London 2012 Sustainability Rarely has a new ISO management standard been put to such im- European Union, Croke Park Stadium in sustainability in the context of events. From Plan was structured around five sustain- mediate and successful use as ISO 20121:2012, Event sustainability Dublin, Ireland, and Sustainable Events the earliest stage of our development as an ability themes – climate change, waste, Ltd., to comment on their experiences in organizing committee, we started developing management systems – Requirements with guidance for use. Photo : LOCOG biodiversity, inclusion and healthy living. implementing the new standard, and its our management system, which of course The priority issues were : The 2012 Olympic Games in London was the first major test of the David Stubbs, Head of Sustainability for the effectiveness in action. pre-dated the British Standard BS 8901, London Organising Committee of the Olympic • Carbon management to deliver a low- new standard. let alone ISO 20121. and Paralympic Games (LOCOG). carbon Games • Delivering a zero-waste Games ISO 20121 has been developed to help Nevertheless, we were engaged in the Providing sustainable and accessible ensure that events, ranging from local development of BS 8901 so there was an • transport solutions celebrations to “ mega events ” such as the element of iteration, and, as our organiza- Olympic and Paralympic Games, leave tion matured, we were able to formalize behind a positive legacy in terms of eco- our arrangements in line with the then nomic, environmental and social benefits, newly published BS 8901 (2007), and We identified the with minimum material waste, energy con- subsequently the 2009 version to which we need for an effective sumption, or strain on local communities. were independently certified in September sustainability The new management standard was 2011. We achieved third-party certification created by the event industry for the event to ISO 20121 in June 2012. management system. industry. It is applicable to any organiza- tion that wishes to establish, implement, ISO Focus+ : Could you confirm the full maintain and improve an event sustainability scope of application of ISO 20121 ? • Using the Games to showcase the eco- management system as a framework for David Stubbs : Our management system nomic benefits of sustainability identifying the potentially negative impacts in conformity with ISO 20121 covers • Promoting sustainable living by mak- of events, removing or reducing them, and LOCOG. Thus we are certified as the ing sustainability a visible part of the capitalizing on the more positive impacts organizing committee of the Olympic and Games through improved planning and processes. Paralympic Games across all our activities • Ensuring the Olympic Park legacy and operations. Some of our venues have contributes to the regeneration of com- London 2012 – also implemented ISO 20121, but they have munities in east London the catalyst for ISO 20121 done this in their own right, not as part London 2012 was the first zero-waste-to- Among stakeholders who provided input of London 2012. The Olympic Delivery landfill Games, achieved by designing out to the development of the standard were Authority separately achieved ISO 20121 for its transport operations. waste, maximizing product lifetime, hiring members of the sustainability team for rather than buying new, refurbishing items the London Organising Committee of the ISO Focus+ : Can you comment on the for reuse, composting waste, and using Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG). benefits of running events in conformity incineration with energy recovery. About David Stubbs, Head of Sustainability with the standard ? 99 % of waste created during construction at LOCOG, said : “ London 2012 is proud of the Olympic Park was recovered, reused to have been the catalyst for ISO 20121. David Stubbs : The benefit of the manage- and recycled. Food waste and food and drink This is a piece of legacy with the potential ment system is that it gives you a structured packaging was channelled into colour-coded to transform how events around the world approach to addressing sustainability recycling, food and compostable packaging consider their economic, environmental aspects. This allows you to put together and non-recyclable waste streams. and social impacts.” a more effective programme than if you Existing venues were used wherever ISO Focus+ asked David Stubbs and Photo : LOCOG just dabbled in it. Secondly, a manage- practical, and new permanent venues were other early users of ISO 20121, includ- ment system approach will give you more built only where there was a strong legacy The London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games operated in conformity with ISO 20121, ing Manchester United Ltd., the 2012 including the hosting of the spectacular opening and closing ceremonies, and world-class credibility with stakeholders and regulators case. Temporary structures were erected Danish Presidency of the Council of the sporting events across over 30 venues. – and for any large event these days, it is for all other needs. A cable-net roof built
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Management Solutions for the Velodrome instead of the original David Stubbs : I certainly think that if David Stubbs : It is easiest to implement steel arch design saved about 1 000 tonnes ISO 20121 had existed in 2005 when sustainability from the outset, rather than of steel and resulted in embodied carbon we started, our work would have been try to retrofit it at a later stage. Of course, savings of over 27 %. Biomass boilers and so much easier. The biggest challenge that is particularly relevant for one-off photovoltaic arrays on buildings were used was due to the scale of the project and events. For those who do repeat events or to generate renewable energy. the constant growth of LOCOG from a are already established organizations in the After the Games, all homes in the Olym- micro-enterprise to a major corporation event sector, you have to start where you pic Village were to be connected to the in the space of seven years. Most events are and build from there. existing community heating system and be are, relatively, much simpler and have Some of the key elements to get right early water efficient, achieving a usage intensity clearer boundaries, so ISO 20121 should on are (a) establishing leadership commit- of 105 litres per person per day (versus a be a valuable tool for most professional ment and putting sustainability into your 144 litre average). event organizers. governance structure, and (b) identifying your stakeholders and their main issues. ISO Focus+ : Have you found ISO 20121 ISO Focus+ : Is there any advice you For those who delay because of fears about easy to implement – or did you meet any could give to other organizations con- committing resources, it is important to challenges en route ? templating ISO 20121 implementation remember that doing this properly is most and certification ? likely to save you money.
We also arranged nine Informal Councils ISO Focus+ : Can you describe some of Danish Presidency Photo : Denmark’s Foreign Ministry (meetings of ministers of finance, foreign the initiatives and measures you have Photo : Denmark’s Foreign Ministry secretaries, justice ministers, etc.) and two already taken in doing so ? Andreas Clausen Boor, Head of Section and of the EU Council Sustainability Coordinator, Danish Foreign Delegates to many EU Council meetings are encouraged to use free bicycles to and from local meetings between the EU-Commission/ Andreas Clausen Boor : Among the Ministry. hotels as part of Denmark’s drive to be the first sustainable EU Presidency. EU-Parliament and the Danish Government. Sustainability has been an integral part many initiatives were : a ban on bottled of the Danish Presidency of the Council water, with only tap water served at of conference badges and lanyards ; ISO 20121 implementation and certifica- ISO Focus+ : Can you comment on the Following the standard CO -neutral freight and shipping ; green tion ? of the European Union during its term of meetings (hence our nickname “ the Tap 2 benefits of running events in conformity flights and CO -offsetting for EU delegates office in 2012. The objective was to promote Water Presidency ”) ; sustainable food provides a strategic and 2 with the standard ? Andreas Clausen Boor : Start early and (local, organic, seasonal) ; eco-certified sponsored by Scandinavian Airlines. practical solutions to highlight the benefits coherent approach to use common sense. The standard is fairly Andreas Clausen Boor : Following the hotel rooms and conference venues ; all of making the Presidency more sustainable. sustainability. ISO Focus+ : Is there any advice you would easy to implement as long as the systems standard provides a strategic and coherent electricity from wind turbines ; food In recognition of this achievement, Denmark give to other organizations contemplating are set up from the beginning. has become the first EU Presidency to be approach to working with sustainability. waste processed into natural gas used to awarded ISO 20121 certification. Instead of scattered “ green ” initiatives, we heat Danish households ; waste manage- ISO Focus+ interviewed Andreas Clausen were able to incorporate sustainability into ment ; use of public transportation and Boor, Head of Section and Sustainability all aspects of the Presidency logistics, and the free bicycles for delegates ; a smart VIP Coordinator for Denmark’s Foreign Ministry, ISO International Standard helped us imple- transport system reducing the need for responsible for organizing some 100 events ment the necessary systems and procedures. cars by 75 % ; collection and recycling taking place in a sustainable way under the
Danish Presidency. Photo : Denmark’s Foreign Ministry
ISO Focus+ : When did the Danish Foreign Ministry first implement an event sustain- ability management system following ISO 20121 requirements and guidance ? Andreas Clausen Boor : The EU Presidency was the first time. The standard became official in June 2012, so we were the first event to receive it. The Olympics also received it, but in advance as the Games had not yet started.
ISO Focus+ : How many and what type of events have you organized using the standard ? Andreas Clausen Boor : Around 100 political meetings ranging from large high- level conferences to small workshops (all Photo : Denmark’s Foreign Ministry meetings had more than 60 participants and EU Ministers for General Affairs, attending an Informal Council Meeting organized by the Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt and German Chancellor Angela Merkel at a meeting of the Council of the European Union, run the largest was attended by 900 people). Danish Presidency in conformity with ISO 20121, visit the ARoS Museum in Aarhus, Denmark. sustainably under the auspices of the ISO 20121-certified Danish Presidency.
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Games, working closely with a team from In doing so, they get a lot of kudos from Manchester Sustainable Events Ltd. their association with Manchester United, United Ltd. and that’s a bonus. We are working to offer ISO Focus+ : Can you describe some of ISO Focus + interviewed Keith McIntosh, our events services the initiatives and measures you have Health, Safety and Environmental Manager already taken ? of ISO 20121-certified Manchester United in line with ISO 20121. Limited, owner of the famous Manchester Keith McIntosh : We are already doing United Old Trafford Stadium and home a lot, particularly in environmental best practice. Recently, we achieved the Carbon venue of Manchester United, one of the Manchester United Ltd. was awarded Trust best-practice standard for the second wealthiest and most widely supported ISO 20121 certification of its sustain- time, underlining our commitment to energy football teams in the world. In 2012, ability management system in July 2012, Photo : Croke Park efficiency and carbon energy reduction. Also, Forbes Magazine voted the team No. 1 in covering the planning and delivery of the Manchester United Foundation has been Event sustainability starts at grass level with Croke Park’s ISO 20121-certified “ Greener. On its annual ranking of the world’s 50 most sporting activities and events at the Old Photo : Manchester United Ltd and off the pitch ” sustainability initiative. doing fantastic work in its goal of motivat- valuable sports teams, valuing the club at Trafford Stadium. Keith McIntosh, Health, Safety and ing and inspiring future generations to build USD 2.23 billion. Environmental Manager, Manchester United better communities. It’s a shop window to Alan Gallagher : In May 2009, Croke Park ISO Focus+ : What type of events have Limited. Croke Park Sports our sustainability programmes. gained ISO 14001 certification as one of you organized using the standard ? Keith McIntosh : It is early days, we are Stadium the first net-carbon-neutral stadiums in Keith McIntosh : We trialled a number very much in the process of engaging, liaising ISO Focus+ : Have you found ISO 20121 the world. We then undertook a holistic, of events in preparation for certification, and encouraging events organizers who bring easy to implement – or have you met any sustainable approach to stadium operations, ISO Focus+ interviewed Alan Gallagher, working with two events organizers to trial their events to Old Trafford to be aware of challenges en route ? and in 2010 became the first stadium to Head of Stadium Operations, and Tracy the system with regard to waste monitoring, the standard, to engage with it and work in Keith McIntosh : It has been challenging, achieve the BS 8901 standard, progressing management and reporting. Going forward, partnership with us. We see that as one of Bunyan, Sustainability Manager at Croke but we have met the challenges such as how to ISO 20121 certification in June 2012. we are working in partnership with events our responsibilities. We want to encourage Park in Dublin, Ireland, one of the first sports to adapt ISO 20121 requirements to our busi- Croke Park’s new sustainability initiative organizers and their clients to offer our members of the events industry to consider stadiums in the world to achieve ISO 20121 ness and operation, how to make it relevant. – “ Greener. On and off the pitch ” – is aimed events services in line with ISO 20121 for a venue that will help make their event more certification. The 82 000 capacity stadium, That’s because of the nature of our business at building on the sustainability lessons learnt exhibitions, conferences, award ceremonies, sustainable – and help them meet some of the fourth largest in Europe, has been at the – we have a very broad scope of stakeholder to date and to minimize the environmental etc. These services include internal facilities their social responsibility requirements. heart of Irish sporting life for over a hundred interest, with extensive international business impact of events both on and off the pitch, such as rooms, suites and lounges, and also Organizations such as Envirolink North years, hosting many notable Gaelic football and a very recognizable brand. encourage environmentally responsible encompass all the football matches. During West, the Carbon Trust, and WRAP (the and hurling matches in addition to rugby, development and staging of events, and raise London 2012 we hosted nine men’s and Waste Resources Action Programme), are soccer, and athletics events, and concerts. awareness among stakeholders, contractors women’s Olympic football matches. keen to be involved in partnering with us We were awarded and staff to carry out their work at the stadium to bring their events to our venue because ISO Focus+ : When did Croke Park begin in a sustainable manner. ISO Focus+ : Can you comment on the we are in a position to offer suppliers to the ISO 20121 certification implementing an event sustainability “ Greener. On and off the pitch ” focuses on : benefits of running events in conformity event industry opportunities to learn, educate in July 2012. management system following ISO 20121 • Maintaining our position as one of the with the standard ? and progress, particularly in sustainability. requirements and guidance ? most sustainable sports venues in the
But we find the standard very helpful. When this standard was announced our Chief Operating Officer, Michael Boling- broke – the director responsible for our sustainability initiatives – made it quite clear that we must achieve internationally recognized “ five-star gold standards ” such as ISO 20121 and ISO 14001. In this respect, the support and leadership from the top makes a big difference. ISO Focus+ : When did you begin imple- menting an event sustainability man- ISO Focus+ : Is there any advice you agement system following ISO 20121 would give to organizations contem- requirements and guidance ? plating ISO 20121 implementation and certification ? Keith McIntosh : Prior to the introduc- tion of ISO 20121, we spent the last two Keith McIntosh : Yes – make sure you years working towards and implementing get reputable and credible advice, guid- BS 8901. When we realized we could go Photo : Manchester United Ltd ance and support. Be very careful whom forward with the new ISO sustainability you approach. We are very appreciative Photo : Croke Park ISO 20121-certified Old Trafford Stadium, home of Manchester United and scene of many standard as soon as it was confirmed, we memorable Premier League and international football matches, conferences, award ceremonies of mentoring support from organizations A full-capacity crowd awaits the start of an Irish National League football match between Dublin decided to implement it prior to the Olympic and other events. such as Sustainable Events. That is key. and Tyrone, one of many events run sustainably at Croke Park.
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world by a collaborative approach with key stakeholders Sustainable • Increasing recycling at Croke Park Events Ltd. with a focus to achieving zero landfill by 2014 ISO Focus+ interviewed Charlie Banks, • Reducing electricity, gas and water Business Development Manager for Sus- consumption Photo : Croke Park tainable Events Ltd., based in Manchester, • Developing effective and consistent This sell-out U2 rock concert is one of many events hosted at Croke Park Stadium in conformity United Kingdom, providing support, advice tools to communicate the sustainability with its ISO 20121 event sustainability management system. and guidance on implementing sustainability message to staff, stakeholders, patrons to companies within the events industry. destinations – to implement the manage- and the public and concerts at Croke Park, all based on the covering central management of the Its Managing Director, Fiona Pelham, is ment system. We also run events through sustainability management system. stadium’s electricity, waste and water Chair of the ISO committee that developed our event company, Organise This. As the ISO 20121 allows you to standardize management systems. ISO 20121. initiatives under the three key pillars of ISO Focus+ : Can you comment on the Results since initiatives were rolled out : management system is our way of working, all the events that we organize are run in sustainability. benefits of running events in conformity • A 31 % reduction in electricity usage ISO Focus+ : When did you begin imple- with the standard ? conformity with ISO 20121, ranging from by using the BMS to control lighting, menting an event sustainability man- Photo : Sustainable Events Ltd. business conferences to staff education ISO Focus+ : Could you confirm the full electrical heating and air handling agement system following ISO 20121 Alan Gallagher : Croke Park takes a part- workshops. scope of application of ISO 20121 ? units, and Passive Infrared (PIR) lights requirements and guidance ? Charlie Banks, Business Development nership approach involving all staff and Manager for Sustainable Events Ltd. to detect motion that switch on and off Alan Gallagher : ISO 20121 is embedded stakeholders in achieving sustainability Charlie Banks : We implemented the ISO Focus+ : Can you comment on the when required into all stadium operations and is a policy objectives and outcomes at the stadium. BS 8901 system when it was launched and benefits of running events in conformity ISO Focus+ : Can you describe some of requirement for both internal and external Involving and communicating with staff • A 29 % reduction in gas usage made the official transition to ISO 20121 in with the standard ? the initiatives and measures you have stakeholders associated with events run and contractors has been key to the strides July 2012, when we were awarded ISO 20121 Charlie Banks : Implementing ISO 20121 already taken in doing so ? within Croke Park. We recognize that the we have made in increasing recycling rates, by third-party certification. Our company at your event will help you identify ways of stadium and its events and activities have reducing utility consumption and develop- culture is sustainability – it’s the way that Charlie Banks : We are working with a ISO 20121 allows you becoming more efficient and thereby mak- an impact on the environment, the economy ing community initiatives. I have found we work so we were pleased to be certified. number of venues and event management to standardize initiatives ing cost savings, being more transparent in and the community, and it is our policy to that ISO 20121 allows you to standardize companies to help them implement and communicating with your stakeholders, and do all that is reasonable to ensure that key initiatives under the three key pillars of under the three key ISO Focus+ : What type of events have measure sustainability at their events using in aligning with your client’s or sponsor’s sustainability impacts relating to the life sustainability : environment, society, and pillars of sustainability. you organized using the standard ? the online tool EventSustainability.com. cycle impact of events, procurement, utilities, economics, scaled depending on the size values. Also, by engaging with your staff construction, transport, employees, visitors, of the event being run. Charlie Banks : We help our clients on innovative solutions, you can encourage – from event organizers to venues and creativity and motivation. customers and the community in general are Implementing ISO 20121 assessed and reviewed financially, socially ISO Focus+ : Can you describe some of • A 28 % reduction in water usage by and environmentally. the initiatives and measures you have installing solenoid valves on public will help you identify already taken in doing so ? levels, saving 370 000 litres of water ways of becoming more ISO Focus+ : What type of events have Alan Gallagher : Croke Park began its per day efficient and making cost you organized using an ISO 20121-based environmental journey in 2008 by ret- • 62 % of stadium waste is now recycled event sustainability management system ? savings. rofitting an energy management system or composted Tracy Bunyan : Since achieving ISO 20121 (EMS) and building management system A number of sports camp and community certification, approximately 750 000 patrons (BMS) as part of a wider state-of-the-art fund projects, and local contractor recruit- ISO Focus+ : Do you think the standard have attended sporting events, conferences, environmental improvement programme ment and resident meeting programmes have is suitable for small businesses ? been implemented with the local community. Charlie Banks : Absolutely, we are a small company and we have implemented ISO Focus+ : Is there any advice you it successfully ! would give to other organizations con- templating ISO 20121 implementation ISO Focus+ : Is there any advice you and certification ? would give to organizations contem- Tracy Bunyan : The key lessons learnt plating ISO 20121 implementation and regarding sustainability is that simple certification ? initiatives can have really positive results. Charlie Banks : Think about your drivers However, there needs to be a framework for doing it and then make a start – any that pulls all of these initiatives together. small step you take is the right one. You Croke Park has gone down the formal can do it in your own time frame at your route of ISO 14001 (environmental) and own pace, but you must get buy-in from Photo : Sustainable Events Ltd. ISO 20121 (sustainability) implementation senior management – you will need their which suits our needs, but the framework At the 2011 Exhibition for the Incentive Business Travel and Meetings industry (EIBTM) in support to be able to implement change. Photo : Croke Park Photo : Croke Park can be less formal for smaller organizations. Barcelona, Spain, Positive Impact, a not-for-profit sister company to Sustainable Events, ran Alan Gallagher, Head of Stadium Tracy Bunyan, Sustainability Manager, Croke Certainly ISO 14001 is a good stepping a three-day programme on sustainability. The stand and all chairs were constructed with Garry Lambert is a British freelance journalist Operations, Croke Park Stadium. Park Stadium. stone to ISO 20121 certification. recyclable cardboard. based in Geneva, Switzerland.
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Standards in Action Standards in Action
carbon emissions, the increasing demand that these have become a common link, level of savings to the end user. To date, Photo : SEAI to use more cost-effective or renewable tying together all aspects of the energy SEAI has trained 112 small businesses in Partnerships forms of energy supply ensures a continu- sector. Energy management is not only Energy MAP and these businesses make ous improvement process. To support this pivotal to driving down overhead costs, average energy-efficiency savings of 11 %. growing demand, we can see the emergence but is also driving innovation and market Under the small-business energy-efficiency of an energy services market, both in Ireland needs. With its energy experts and highly programme, SEAI has assisted 2 300 busi- with a purpose and internationally. skilled workforce, the country is leading nesses through on-site audits and mentoring the way in continued energy management and delivered savings of EUR 50.6 million Immediate benefits for industry systems development and deployment. It at the end of 2011. has become a test-bed location for project Following the launch of I.S.393 in 2005, and prototype development in relation to Community benefits Aerial view of Dundalk sustainable energy SEAI immediately identified a step change energy technology and this is acknowledged of sustainability community. in the energy-efficiency benefits that accom- worldwide. panied the implementation of the standard Dundalk 2020 – a case study • Short-term actions such as integrat- with savings up to 20 % in some cases. Wider benefits of EnMS in other In parallel to the rollout of the national ing sustainable energy infrastruc- EnMS is a systematic process for continu- sectors ture or trialling new techniques and ally improving energy performance. It is EnMs programme in 2006, SEAI, in partnership with local and international technologies suitable for all organizations, whatever the Industry in Ireland has led the way. stakeholders, started a project to develop a size or sector, but is particularly beneficial SEAI, however, soon recognized that the sustainable energy community management if you operate energy-intensive processes. process that underpinned the EnMs was also process in a sizeable town in Ireland – Dun- Energy management is applicable across all other sectors and set dalk, with a population of approximately also driving innovation about adapting the process for SMEs and 25 000 inhabitants. The vision of SEAI was Its success is generally the public sector. The Energy Management and market needs. to stimulate a national move towards sustain- Action Programme (Energy MAP) was the attributed to taking able energy practice through demonstration outcome ; this is a 20-step programme that energy management in an exemplar community. The structured mirrors the EnMS process, but is aimed at SEAI has created the SEC toolkit based community approach developed in Dundalk from the boiler room to less energy-intensive and less process-driven on the lessons learned from the Dundalk The Irish energy management has not only been highly successful, it is the boardroom. organizations. It is also the lead programme project. Louth local authorities were the replicable and is now helping to create more that SEAI currently promotes for the public first local authority to partner with SEAI story will do Sustainable Energy Communities (SECs) sector with a view to ultimately moving for the Dundalk 2020 project. Louth is now Photo : SEAI across Ireland. these organizations into ISO 50001. partnering with other local authorities to The main reason for its success is gener- An SEC establishes links between : ally attributed to taking energy management Energy MAP is a simplified or “ lite ” support the development of an exemplar by Declan Meally • Long-term challenges such as climate from the boiler room to the boardroom. version of the standard and suits organiza- SEC in their county. change Senior management commitment and total tions that are not familiar with management In Dundalk, people across all sectors Ireland embraced the benefits of standards for energy management in organizational engagement are crucial standards. The benefit, however, of following • Medium-term opportunities such as were encouraged to get involved and the 2005 with the development of the Irish Energy Management Standard to a successful outcome and, since the the same process is that it delivers the same policy targets achievements were based on translating (EnMS) I.S.393. This was one of the fastest standards developed in launch, SEAI has succeeded in achieving Photo : SEAI Ireland and was primarily due to the successful collaboration between coverage for the EnMS in industries that are collectively responsible for over 60 % the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), the National of Irish industrial energy consumption. In Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) and industry stakeholders. the five years after the introduction of the I.S.393 standard in Ireland, savings of up to EUR 150 million in energy costs have This national standard was designed this project, Ireland has a pivotal role in been achieved through a wide range of around a Plan-Do-Check-Act methodol- the development of a guidance standard energy-efficiency measures. ogy (PDCA) so that it could be easily for implementation, maintenance, and The nature of new clean energy solu- incorporated into existing management improvement of an EnMS. tions is exactly where Ireland sees that system activities. I.S.393 was one of the first The starting point for setting any standard its enterprise strengths lie : innovation, EnMS standards of its type in the world. It is commitment at the top. The commitment technology and knowledge-led services. led the way in providing the blueprint for a given by the government in this area and International companies based in Ireland new European EnMS standard EN 16001 the lead taken by industry in Ireland in have recognized the leadership role that (published in August 2009), which further the development of a national standard Ireland is playing in the development of supported ISO in the development of the for energy management are now reaping energy management systems and support- International Standard, ISO 50001:2011, concrete enterprise rewards. The sustain- ing standards. Irish experts are also leading Energy management systems – Requirements able energy agenda is already creating jobs energy management programmes globally, with guidance for use. Currently a suite in Ireland, and one of the central pillars while many Irish-based multinationals are of guidance standards is being developed of the country’s next phase of economic transferring knowledge developed in Ireland by ISO technical committee ISO/TC 242, development is energy efficiency. to their global counterparts. Energy management, to further support As more and more organizations seek It has become apparent as the energy the implementation of ISO 50001. Within to take control of energy expenditure and management systems story has unfolded Wind turbine in an urban location – an iconic symbol to generate energy.
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Standards in Action
and businesses. Through ISO 50001 and The reward of a smart city is a smart sustainable energy community manage- economy, and we have the opportunity to ment in partnership with ICT industry be the architects of this smart economy. expertise, Ireland is well placed to lead The successful collaboration in 2005 the smart city/region debate within Europe between the SEAI and the NSA that led and can leverage knowledge, experience to the Irish Energy Management Stand- and support from existing EU and Irish ard I.S.393 is continuing today with the policy and programmes. development of new sustainable energy standards. This partnership is a model for inter-agency collaboration. The reward of a smart city is a smart economy.
About the author Ireland is also home to many of the world’s top 500 companies, including Declan Meally has ABB, General Electric, Honey, IBM, Intel worked at SEAI and Siemens to name but a few. Interna- since 2004. He is tionally, these companies are innovating Head of Depart- and developing new technology for smart ment with respon- Photo : SEAI communications and smart cities. sibility for non- Initial zone of Dundalk acted as a test bed. Ireland is uniquely positioned to test this domestic energy smart technology in our cities and regions. efficiency in the best-practice energy management into a make actual savings of EUR 250 000 in and more knowledge-intensive economy. Smart city/region concepts and initiatives Organizations such as SEAI are creating Sustainable Energy language that everyone from the mayor to three months and identified further savings The development of a smart city and region are being promoted internationally by the living laboratories through their sustain- Authority of Ireland, Ireland’s national school children could understand. Examples of EUR 750 000. must build on existing infrastructure, and European Commission, the Organisation able energy communities programmes, body for sustainable energy policy and of success : a residents’ group with 200 The SEAI SEC guidelines are based on this infrastructure must be made smarter for Economic Co-operation and Devel- where such technology and solutions can programmes. Mr. Meally holds a Bach- homes collectively saved EUR 50 000 (an ISO 50001 and they will help public and and be intelligently connected through opment, and a growing number of cities be trialled. elor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. average EUR 250 each) on their heating private stakeholders to understand the smart communications. and electricity bills ; a school was able to process involved in creating an SEC. In improve their energy efficiency by 60 % understanding the process, all stakeholders through retrofitting and the local authority will better understand the role they have SEAI has delivered has saved over EUR 300 000 in one year. to play in making their community more savings of EUR 50.6 sustainable. The benefits enjoyed by the million. Dundalk 2020 community can be enjoyed Industry in Ireland has by all SECs, leading to a greater sense of led the way. local awareness and engagement in the development of sustainable energy projects. The difficulty, however, in seeking to trans- The SEC programme did not set out to form a city to a smart city is deciding where transform the whole town of Dundalk into to start and who is going to be responsible for The impact of the Dundalk 2020 model an SEC, but focused on a zone of approxi- the transformation. From the lessons learned has clearly shown the great benefits of an mately four square kilometres within the in Dundalk, SEAI have realized that starting SEC-structured EnMS. It increases the town that became the training ground for all with energy and focusing efforts on develop- supply of renewable energy, improves the of the stakeholders to develop best practice. ing a smart-energy city is the logical place energy performance of the built environment, The lessons learned then, over time, started to begin. The key benefit is that targets can intelligently manages the energy supply spreading out to the wider town and region. be easily set and progress measured against and demand balance, and ensures greater The Dundalk 2020 model can help all inter- these targets. If the local authority embraces energy autonomy for the community. The ested communities to reap the great benefits ISO 50001 to manage the energy they use, project has already led to savings of more of living in a sustainable energy community. then, with them acting as the local champion than 5 000 tonnes of CO2 per annum, while to encourage other key energy users to use organizations together have saved up to Sustainable energy the EnMs tools (ISO 50001 where appropri- EUR 500 000 each year since 2007. One communities and smart cities ate), the local authority can infuse sustainable successful initiative involved SEAI train- energy best practices into the city. When these ing 12 unemployed technical graduates Creating smart cities and regions will sound foundations are in place, it is then much in Energy MAP and placing them in 45 require new initiatives by all sectors. more efficient to adopt smart communica- local businesses on a temporary basis to Smart city/region development plans tions technologies and combine them with help them with their energy management. must have an integrated vision which can the EnMS to make cities and communities Photo : SEAI These graduates helped the businesses to demonstrate a transition to a low-carbon truly smart and sustainable. “Out of little acorns great oaks grow” – residents in Dundalk SEC participated in a pilot trial.
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360° 360°
work programme. But participants’ ideas of ISO 26000 around the world. A survey could be shared with the former joint secre- conducted by the PPO showed that at least tariat of the ISO Working Group on Social 60 countries have adopted the standard, and Responsibility, comprising ISO members SIS 20 more are in the process of reviewing (Sweden) and ABNT (Brazil), and through for adoption. In addition, the text is now them to the ISO 26000 Post Publication available in 22 languages. Other aspects of Organization (PPO) for advice. ISO 26000’s global use were highlighted, including the issue of certification which Transparency and impartiality has generated a lot of debate. On this point, the survey showed a mix of responses for Opening the event, Rob Steele declared : and against the idea. “ All ISO standards are developed following University experience the principles of transparency, openness, Developing countries impartiality and consensus, effectiveness Strategic Advisor to the ISO Secretary- and relevance, coherence, and following During a workshop for developing General, Dr. Daniele Gerundino (left, photo the development dimension. ISO 26000 countries (see Box page 50), participants above), and Coordinator of the University is no exception.” agreed that use of the standard could bring of Geneva Masters Programme, Prof. several benefits, including : Lucio Baccaro, introduced the Master Rob Steele, ISO Secretary-General. • Common understanding of social in Standardization, Social Regulation ISO 26000 can result responsibility in the poorest state in Brazil, the company and Sustainable Development. The rich ISO 26000 in business development opted for working with the local community, • Influence on public policy programme brings together sustainable and good economic rather than bringing a workforce and talent • Engagement of stakeholders development, participatory governance, International forum revisits results. from outside. The result was that 60 % of the • Regional networking and standardization. The programme was people involved were from the region, and • Stepping stone for sustainable launched in 2011 and carried forward to more than 5 600 professionals were trained. the road travelled development 2012. The line-up of programme lecturers “ Listening to what society is doing is includes more than 20 external experts Mr. Steele invited participants to join in key to taking sustainable actions in the The biggest challenges for implementa- and teachers. a constructive dialogue, and encouraged future, ” he said, “ and ISO 26000 helped tion were lack of awareness, resources and by Maria Lazarte everyone to “ ensure that facts and real- us do just that.” understanding. Initiatives are underway to life experience support our discussions on address these issues. ISO 26000 and its future.” As the ISO 26000 guidance standard on social responsibility (SR) Growing popularity (NSBs), policy makers and various organi- Huge opportunity zations are using ISO 26000 in activities, reached its second anniversary, ISO Secretary-General Rob Steele Changing world A Google search of ISO 26000 today policy guidance and numerous documents challenged participants at a two-day open forum in Geneva, Swit- returns over two million results. Staffan Söderberg, Vice-Chair of promoting SR. In academic circles, 3 000 Resulting from the efforts of over 400 zerland, to consider what has been done so far, and where the road Kristina Sandberg, ISO 26000 PPO ISO 26000 PPO, drew attention to how articles and 50 books, as well as many experts and 200 observers from 99 coun- Secretary, highlighted the growing interest consultants, National Standards Bodies doctorates, are based on the standard. should take us next, by asking, “ So what ? ” tries and 42 international organizations, ISO 26000 was developed with a wide The ISO 26000 forum, organized by ISO Mr. McKinley explained that the forum’s stakeholder, regional, and gender balance. in November 2012, was an opportunity to objective was to provide ideas to ISO on The guidance standard is not a manage- share experience, best practice and les- the use and possible future of ISO 26000. ment system, or intended for third-party sons learned, as well as highlight areas for It would not decide amendments to the certification, but “ It’s good enough to improvement. standard, or add new projects to ISO’s help meet the economic, environmental and societal challenges of a changing world, ” said Jorge Cajazeira, Chair of the ISO 26000 PPO, as he described how Listening to what society many documents and initiatives are now is doing is key to taking based on the standard. sustainable actions Keynote speaker, Carlos Alberto Griner, in the future. Chief Human Resources Officer, Suzano Pulp and Paper, explained why the com- pany uses ISO 26000 : “ We operate in a complex environment, in multiple cities, “ I get to see a lot of interesting people in a diverse context, and believe that the who are trying to change the world, ” best way to keep our business running is exclaimed ISO Deputy Secretary-General to balance the three aspects of the triple Kevin McKinley, as he welcomed some bottom line [economic, environmental and 300 participants and more than 50 speakers social sustainability].” from the private and public sectors, includ- Kevin McKinley, ISO Deputy Secretary- When constructing one of the world’s ing national standards bodies. General. most modern eucalyptus market pulp mills The forum brought together people from business, government, consumer organizations, academia, NGOs and other stakeholders.
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Developing countries exchange ISO 26000 experience Panellists demonstrated how ISO 26000 ISO 26000, this should involve transparent had helped organizations protect biologi- multi-stakeholder engagement. by Sandrine Tranchard cal diversity, promote non-discrimination, Another argument was that ISO 26000 train workforces, shape public policy and can only take us so far, and that public Some 120 participants from about 70 much more, but they also identified some policy and regulations are necessary for countries exchanged experience on challenges. SR enforcement. ISO 26000:2010, Guidance on social On the one hand , NORMAPME (European Sadie Homer, Senior Policy Advisor, Con- responsibility, at a workshop for developing Office of Crafts, Trades and SMEs) argued sumers International (CI), appreciated how countries organized by ISO’s Development that from the perspective of SMEs, the docu- consumers were respected and recognized Interviewing participants as part of ISO’s social media and Web coverage of the event. and Training Services (DEVT) in November ment might be too long and complex. On the as key stakeholders in the development of 2012, in Geneva, Switzerland. other hand, Dante Pesce, Executive Director ISO 26000. Regarding the challenges, she of Vincular, explained that ISO 26000 pro- said, “ We have to improve recognition of ISO Secretary-General Rob Steele said : ISO 26000 before we take on other issues ”. The new government of Denmark, as well vides a comprehensive overview from which “ This is the first time ISO has organized as the Nordic Council of Ministers, have organizations can select what is relevant to such an event on one specific standard both recommended the use of ISO 26000 them. “ Most people that read it for the first Road ahead and it shows the importance and relevance as part of their SR strategies. time think they have to comply with everything, As participants were asked to picture of the standard to developing countries.” and that frightens them. After you break that the future, many saw a role for ISO 26000. Passion and hope He underlined that during the ISO 26000 barrier, my experience is that it is extremely “ We are starting to realize the importance development process, the involvement of practical, ” he said. of SR for due diligence in mergers and acqui- “ So much passion and so much hope ! ” concluded Staffan Söderberg, Vice-Chair developing countries was very important, A difficulty expressed by various panel- sitions, ” said Anthony Miller, Economic lists was that organizations need to show of the ISO 26000 PPO, “ It will be fun to with over 40 % of experts. Participants at the ISO 26000 workshop for developing countries. Affairs Officer, UN Conference on Trade results from their SR activities, and called and Development. “ Organizations must work with ISO 26000 in the coming year.” Beer Budoo, Director of ISO DEVT, declared : But Mr. Söderberg stressed, “ Tools engaged in dialogue with local stakehold- for guidance on self-assessment, statements be aware of what they are really getting.” Clearly, there is a trend towards increasing “ The objectives of the workshop are to supporting ISO 26000 must be stakeholder- ers. Cecilia Lööf, PR manager at HSB’s and reports. NEN, ISO member for the national adoption and interest, but perhaps share the experience, discuss the way based, comprehensive and transparent.” Göterborg-Division, said that the latter Netherlands, presented its national initia- the biggest challenge we face is that of expectations : do all organizations really forward for NSBs, and equip them with Various companies have already imple- actually helped complete projects faster, tive on self-declaration recommendations. So much passion mented the standard such as Maersk, Novo- want a sustainable world ? ideas, information and tools to develop concluding that, “ Working with ISO 26000 and so much hope ! Nordisk, TeliaSonera, HSB, HM, Suzano, can also result in business development and Kevin McKinley recognized that the past action plans to ensure the further uptake Bridal make-ups Petrobras, Veolia, Air France, Toshiba, AB good economic results.” two days had been exciting and intense. of ISO 26000. This is a dynamic situation Volvo, Takeda, Panasonic, British Telecom, Like any other good idea, however, people Prof. Sri Ram Khanna, Department of Osama Elmeligy, Chairman of TOTAL Whether an NGO, business, government in which NSBs have a central role to play TRS, and Toyota. first need to know that it exists. AFNOR, Commerce from the University of Delhi, Consulting, Egypt, highlighted the rapid or consumer, it was clear that ISO 26000 in the way forward.” ISO member for France, has a dedicated emphasized the challenges that Indian and unpredictable challenges faced by his was important enough to raise passionate consumers face when the primary goal of debate. He quoted some activities linked to Website among other awareness-building country, and the potential for ISO 26000 We have to improve initiatives. In a similar spirit, Indonesia has companies is making profits. in helping to cope with change. ISO 26000, such as the project within the Maria Lazarte is Assistant Editor, ISO Focus+. recognition of ISO 26000 launched a corporate social responsibility “ Most company SR reports are like Red Puentes, a Latin American network Middle East-North Africa region with the award for companies. The Global Reporting bridal make-up, ” he said, meaning that of over 40 NGOs was also hopeful of the objective of creating a pool of national before we take on other issues. Initiative (GRI) has developed a linkage they hide or “ dress up ” the real picture. If positive role the standard can have in shap- For more information, including presentations, experts on social responsibility in eight pilot document stressing the many similarities the goal is to have a verification system for ing the future. see: www.iso.org/ISO26000workshop. countries to support its implementation. between its own guidelines and ISO 26000. Dr. Jochen Weikert, Senior Manager However, Mr. Söderberg warned that Participants concluded that to improve for private sector cooperation at the there were also “ bad examples ” where global use of ISO 26000, it was necessary to harmonize and increase communication, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale organizations claimed to be “ certified ” or as well as develop useful guides and case Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), on behalf of used other conformity assessments terms. studies to make the standard more accessible. Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Good for business Cooperation and Development (BMZ), said : The good, the bad and the ugly “ We have supported ISO 26000 for the last During the conference, panellists from two years because of its importance. With around the world, representing industry, Participants agreed that ISO 26000 ISO 26000, there is a global consensus international and non-governmental organiza- brings many important benefits. Notably, and we believe this consensus has to be tions, NSBs, consumers, academia and other it represents consensus on what we mean by social responsibility. Dwight Justice, maintained.” stakeholders, discussed their experiences with ISO 26000, highlighting the biggest Policy Advisor at the International Trade This workshop was sponsored by GIZ and challenges as well as future opportunities. Union Confederation, said that the standard the Swedish International Development Contributors agreed that use of ISO 26000 was the “ most comprehensive and concise Cooperation Agency (Sida). promoted transparency and communication, guidance of what an organization should and helped build trust with stakeholders. do – for that reason I think it’s extremely Sandrine Tranchard is a Communication For example, following the standard, useful.” It constitutes a “ very concise Officer at ISO. the Swedish housing cooperation (HSB) agreement of what responsible behaviour trained all employees on human rights, and is for organizations ”. Participants expressed their views in an interactive workshop. Here Kevin McKinley throws a ball to the next speaker.
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New Releases New Releases Coming Up
ISO and the future In coming years, the construction sector will have to deal with important issues such as Sustainable environment climate change and its impact on buildings The construction industry is responsible and civil engineering works, and the energy for a great deal of waste and general ef ciency of buildings. By providing accurate pollution, and major improvements must measurement methods for the thermal proper- be made to decrease these. ties of building products and whole buildings, ISO/TC 163, ISO standards help through the work of use in the builtThermal environment performance, and ISO/TC and energy 205, ISO/TC 59/SC 17, Sustainability in build- Building environment design, provide tools for ISO standardsings and civil engineering works, which the ef cient use of energy and the reduction deals with issues ranging from general of greenhouse gas emissions. principles and environmental declarations for building products, to the framework The development of aspects related to of methods to assess environmental the delivery process for buildings and performance and the development of civil engineering works, e.g. the planning, indicators for sustainability. organization and management of resources, State of the art for thefrom conception to completion, will lead to Construction procurement new standards. The stages of development ISO working group ISO/TC 59/WG 2, and the delivery management framework, the Construction procurement, has devel- process of managing ongoing multiple inter- oped standards that provide processes, dependent projects to deliver benefits for the Guest Interview procedures and methods that are fair, same client, could lead to new standards on construction industryequitable, transparent, competitive and delivery processes, procedures and methods cost effective. Procurement standards and facilities management (ISO/TC 267, From traditional foundations to innovative technologies Facilities management). ISO& construction are especially relevant for developing countries that lack experience and the In the future, standards on sustainability will In an exclusive interview in the instruments necessary to aid them in become as significant as past work, such as becoming competitive. Procurement modular coordination, to improve the ef- ISO Central standards are key to a stakeholder’s suc- ficiency of construction and the manufacture February 2013 issue of ISO Focus+, Secretariat cess in international trade. They furnish and supply of building products. 1, chemin the framework around which public, de la Voie-Creuse private and international organizations Denis Tremblay, General Manager of the Case postale 56 may develop their procurement systems CH - 1211 Genève 20 to achieve fair competition, to reduce the ISO Resources Switzerland opportunity for abuse, and to improve Energy Unit of Tetra Tech in Canada, ISO’s Website (in English and French, with top predictability in by Sandrine Tranchard Tel. +41 22 749 01 11 levels in Russian and individual publications procurement out- Fax +41 22 733 34 30 in other languages) comes. ISO standards make the construction and a member of the board of directors E-mail [email protected] www.iso.org industry more efficient and effective
Volum e 3, No. 8, September 2 Web www.iso.org 012, ISSN 2226-1095 ISO Focus+ magazine (10 editions annually in English and French) ISO standards solve problems and provide of BPR, a Tetra Tech subsidiary, high- www.iso.org/isofocus+ solutions in all stages of the construction ISO videos development process ISBN 978-92-67-10597-0 www.iso.org/youtube Other ISO technical Construction and IT lights the importance of International has just published a ©new ISO – November 2012 Since theLess 1950s, waste, Follow us on ISO better results Twitter – What it is, what it achieves committees develop Why standardsISO standards matter provide constructionThe scope industry of An important task for the world’s popula- ISO ISO • www.iso.org/twitter ISO Kia Motors Vice Chairman on driving f standards relating stakeholders with the information they need to ISO/TC 59 has been and standards orward sales construction standards • ISO 900tion0 series celebrates has 25 years more than Join us ISOon Facebook (International Organization for to other transversal The constructioncompete industry on is globala key sectormarkets to establish common Standards to the company: doubled. Around2012-08-14 11: brochure – ISO & construction – www.iso.org/facebookStandardization) is the world’s largest subjects : ISO/TC 167, in national economies, while provid- Much of this work is the focus of ISO terms of reference half the population Join us ondeveloper GooglePlus of voluntary International Steel and aluminium ing servicing andISO products standards for export provide a state-of-the-arttechnical committee ISO/TC 59, Buildings and terminology, to “International Standards act like a lives in urban areas,www.iso.org/gplus Standards providing benefits for business, structures, and ISO/ worldwide. In technicaladdition, thebase environment for regulators andand help civil to engineeringdrive works. Created in make it possible for government and society through a portfolio created by the industry is a major ele- increasing the TC 179, Masonry. down costs for producers, customers1947, andISO/TC 59 has so far developed 109 construction docu- giving a concise overview of its of more than 19 400* standards. ISO is a ment in determiningconsumers the quality of life of International Standards. Topics range from need for building Contact the ISO member in your countr mentation to be easily network comprising the national standards populations. terminology, the organization of information footbridge and are tools for the company, construction andwww.iso.org/isomembers understood whatever institutes of 164* countries. ISOy :standards To avoid falling victim to change in a technology in building and civil engineering infrastructure. the language, wher- make a positive contribution to the world global market, becoming an obstacle to processes, the geometric requirements for substantial portfolio of InternaISO and construction_EN.indd- 2-3 At the same ever the border. The we live in. They ensure vital features the implementation, coordination and buildings, to building elements and com- allowing it to cross some of the barriers time, expanding such as quality, ecology, safety, reliability, maintenance of quality in construction, ponents including modular coordination, standardization of globalization and compatibility, interoperability, efficiency and it is essential for stakeholders to benefit general rules for joints, tolerances and fit, products and services effectiveness – and at an economical cost. and performance requirements. to entry. When we cross these barriers, tional Standards for the construc- international trade from globally recognized standards, demands, in turn, that have enhanced They facilitate trade, spread knowledge, continually updated to remain at the state ISO standards also address vital and the digital exchange and share technological advances and the demand for of the art. topical issues such as sustainability, of documentation and good management practices. new markets become accessible. The standards. accessibility and service life. data be standardized tion sector. ISO provides a platform to develop practi- * As end October 2012 and fair for all parties. cal tools for the construction industry. Design life, durability, service life planning Construction exacts The standardization of ISO standards result from input from Who do ISO standards benefit ? The effort to ensure the guaranteed greater the worldwide level of standardi- a heavy toll on the digital basics, which all stakeholders : architects, designers, lifespan of a building, without running up planet’s natural Implementing ISO standards in con- engineers, owners, product manufacturers, extraordinary economic and environmental allows progress in this struction not only provides technical resources and regulators, policy makers, consumers. costs, is essential. TC 59’s2012-11-13 subcommittee 14:21:22 eld, is being devel- zation, the greater the competitiveness advantages, but also social, economic and raises environmental Working through the ISO network of na- ISO/TC 59/SC 14, Design life, covers oped by ISO/TC 59/ environmental gains. International Stand- tional members, ISO standards feature the standardization for fields such as terminol- SC 13, Organization concerns for which ards bene t : ISO standards help world’s foremost expertise, disseminating ogy, life-cycle costs, durability, mainte- of information about between companies, which in the end The construction industry is a key sector Industry : Design and manufacturing to provide solutions. knowledge to developed and developing nance ; the members of SC 14 also bring construction works. countries. specifications are of major importance their focus to bear on performance audits, to all stakeholders. ISO sets standards ISO construction standards generate confi- data requirements and procedures. gives the ultimate client a big payoff in many national economies, and often the ISO, as the principle on construction, based on international dence because of ISO’s consensus-based developer of Inter- consensus, providing comprehensive Accessibility and usability approach to providing global solutions. national Standards, solutions that facilitate international The increase in an aging population in Big benefits ISO takes into account good business through cost savings.” largest employer. In addition to the con- makes a major trade and exchange. ISO’s International practices and the optimal management of developed countries adds their needs Standards reflect the state of the art, contribution to the resources, while keeping watch to ensure to those of people with disabilities, with serving as a vehicle to disseminate new construction sector. environmental impact is reduced. ISO repercussions on issues of building ac- technologies and innovative practices. struction of buildings and infrastructure, it International Standards tackle the chal- cessibility and usability. The planning, lenges of sustainable development at the Regulators : ISO standards are systemati- design and construction of buildings and same time as monitoring requirements for cally reviewed and improved. They provide other facilities must make provisions for provides services and products for export technical and functional performance. technical foundations for legislation and a sufficient degree of accessibility and serve as the basis for national regulations usability. ISO/TC 59/SC 16, Accessibility which do not create unnecessary technical and usability of the built environment, worldwide. ISO standards provide the sector barriers to trade. Regulators can apply delivers standards responding to the UN’s International Standards to extend building Universal Declaration on Human Rights for small codes. which states that everyone has the right Construction products systems to equal access to public services in his or with solutions for all aspects of its activity, Consumers : ISO standards give consumers ISO Focus+ Hundreds of standards complement the work of ISO/TC 59, including those developed by the following ISO technical committees : her country. con dence in the construction industry. ISO/TC 21, Equipment for re protection and re- ghting ; ISO/TC 71, Concrete, reinforced concrete and pre-stressed concrete : The same level of consumer protection is from the traditional to the innovative, and ISO/TC 74, Cement and lime : ISO/TC 77, Products in bre reinforced cement ; ISO/TC 89, Wood-based panels ; ISO/TC 92, Fire applicable whether a country’s economy is safety ; ISO/TC 98, Bases for design of structures ; ISO/TC 138, Plastics pipes, ttings and valves for the transport of uids ; mature or evolving. ISO/TC 160, Glass in building ; ISO/TC 162, Doors and windows ; ISO/TC 165, Timber structures ; ISO/TC 178, Lifts, escalators The electronic edition (PDF file) of they include tools to tackle new challenges and moving walks ; ISO/TC 189, Ceramic tile ; ISO/TC 218, Timber ; ISO/TC 219, Floor coverings, and ISO/TC 221, Geosynthetics. ISO Focus+ is accessible free of such as pollution and energy performance. ISO and construction_EN.indd 4-5 2012-11-13 14:23:25 business The new brochure underlines how ISO charge on the ISO Website www. iso.org/isofocus+. In addition, the standards tackle the challenges of sustainable information technology in building and civil foremost expertise in the world and dis- development at the same time as providing engineering processes ; geometric require- seminate it to both developed and develop- entire collection of previous issues of requirements for technical and functional ISO Focus+ editions, plus ISO Focus ments for buildings, building elements and ing countries. oday small and medium-sized enter- make a significant difference to annual performance. T components including modular construction, In the future, the construction sector will prises (SMEs) are by far the most numerous turnover, and sometimes the difference (2004-2009), plus ISO Management Implementing International Standards and performance requirements. have to deal with issues such as climate in the economy, and consequently vital to between success and failure. Systems magazine (2001-2009) in construction not only provides technical change and its impact on buildings, as well economic wealth and environmental health To an SME, some of the benefits of using is also available free of charge as advantages, but also social, economic and as the energy efficiency of buildings, thus by stimulating innovation and developing International Standards include: electronic files. environmental gains for industry, regulators requiring standards for accurate measure- In the future, the entrepreneurial skills. • The opening up of export markets and consumers. ment methods for the thermal properties of ISO Update construction sector will SMEs generate the majority of jobs, as products will be compatible on a The brochure underlines the benefits buildings and building products. The devel- promote diversification of economic activi- global scale The ISO Update, a monthly sup- of ISO’s consensus-based approach, and have to deal with issues opment of standards related to the delivery outlines ISO’s solutions for good business such as climate change. ties, support sustainable development, and • Increased efficiency plement to ISO Focus+ is available process of buildings and civil engineering make a significant contribution to exports practice, optimal management of resources • Increased credibility and confidence electronically (PDF) in both English works is also one of the next steps. and trade. In the global marketplace, SME and limiting impacts on the environment. as customers from all over the world www.iso.org/isoupdate and French ISO & construction, published in English customers and consumers are increasingly Out of 19 500 standards from almost all ISO standards also address vital and topi- and French, is available free of charge recognize ISO International Standards www.iso.org/fr/isoupdate. concerned with their environmental per- sectors of business and technology, more cal issues such as accessibility, responding from the ISO Central Secretariat through formance, and investors scrutinize how The ISO Update informs readers than a hundred come from ISO technical to the UN’s Universal Declaration on Human the ISO Store (www.iso.org) or by con- The issue brings together a portfolio well they manage economic, social and about the latest developments in committee ISO/TC 59, Buildings and civil Rights which states that everyone has the tacting the Marketing, Communication & of case studies from several countries as environmental risks. Their flexibility, the ISO world, including ISO member engineering works. In addition, many other right to equal access to public services in Information department ([email protected]). well as articles covering the application however, enables them to match quick bodies’ CEO and address changes, ISO technical committees have developed his or her country. It can also be obtained from ISO national of software engineering or environmental changes in market demands. draft standards under circulation, as standards and related technical documents When developing standards, ISO involves member institutes. The brochure can also management standards in smaller settings, The February 2013 ISO Focus+ issue well as newly published, confirmed on construction products. all stakeholders, from architects to designers, be downloaded as a PDF file free of charge or the benefits of standards and participa- The brochure highlights the wide range engineers, owners, product manufacturers, looks at how ISO International Standards tion in standardization for SMEs. Some from the ISO Website. or withdrawn standards. It also in- of topics addressed by ISO’s construc- regulators, policy makers and consumers. help SMEs of all shapes and sizes to work of the barriers and challenges for SMEs cludes a list of upcoming technical tion standards, including : terminology ; Working through its network of national more efficiently, increase productivity and and possible solutions to overcome these Sandrine Tranchard is a Communication Officer, ONLINE committee plenary meetings. requirements for joints, tolerances and fit ; members, its standards are based on the ISO Central Secretariat. access new markets. These benefits can are also highlighted.
52 ISO Focus+ January 2013 ISO Focus+ January 2013 53 1
Manage your energy well and you’ve more to devote to your customers
ISO 50001 for energy management.
The kangaroo is very ISO 50001 users are ISO 50001:2011, Energy manage- y challenge with Win the energ ment systems, is available from ISO energy effi cient. It can ISO 50001 reporting that the standard reach speeds of more helps them to increase national member institutes (listed with than 50 km/h while using energy effi ciency and cut contact details on the ISO Website less energy than any costs. Improve your at www.iso.org) and ISO Central other mammal. So moth- organization’s energy Secretariat Web store at www.iso.org er kangaroos have more management and you or e-mail to [email protected]. ISO 50001 energy for looking after energy management can concentrate more on International Organization for junior ! Translate that into 2011-06-07 16:27:27 ensuring the satisfaction Standardization – www.iso.org
001.indd 1 hallenge with ISO 50 business terms. If your Win the energy c of your customers. Central Secretariat organization can reduce Who’d have thought that the 1, ch. de la Voie-Creuse the energy it needs to operate, it can devote kangaroo had something to teach Case postale 56 more resources to value-adding processes. CEOs ? CH-1211 Genève 20
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